Opinion Article, Int J Cardiol Res Vol: 12 Issue: 1

Importance of Atrial Fibrillation and its Symptoms

Gharaviri Williams^*

¹Department of Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

*Corresponding Author: Gharaviri Williams
Department of Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
E-mail: williams.g@gmail.com

Received date: 07 February, 2023, Manuscript No. ICRJ-23-95001;

Editor assigned date: 09 February, 2023, PreQC No. ICRJ-23-95001 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 23 February, 2023, QC No. ICRJ-23-95001;

Revised date: 02 March, 2023, Manuscript No. ICRJ-23-95001 (R);

Published date: 13 March, 2023 DOI: 10.4172/2324-8602.1000487.

Citation: Williams G (2023) Importance of Atrial Fibrillation and its Symptoms. Int J Cardiol Res 12:1.

Description

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by irregular and rapid electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart (atria), resulting in an irregular and fast heartbeat. AF disrupts the normal rhythm of the heart, potentially leading to serious health consequences.

Causes of atrial fibrillation

The causes of AF are frequently multifactorial and may vary from person to person. Some of the common causes and risk factors associated with AF include:

Age: The risk of atrial fibrillation increases with age, particularly after the age of 60.

Hypertension: High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for AF, as it can lead to changes in the structure and function of the heart.

Heart diseases: Conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and congenital heart defects can increase the risk of Atrial Fibrillation.

Thyroid disorders: Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation.

Obesity: Excessive body weight, particularly abdominal obesity, is associated with an increased risk of AF.

Alcohol consumption: Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, especially alcohol abuse, can establish AF incidents.

Sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, has been associated with a higher probability of AF.

Chronic kidney disease: Impaired kidney function has been associated with a higher risk of AF.

Other factors: Certain medications, stimulants, stress, and family history of AF may also contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation.

Symptoms of atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation can appears in a number of ways, and some individuals with AF may not experience any symptoms. However, common symptoms of AF include:

Palpitations: A rapid, irregular, and fluttering heartbeat

Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak due to the irregular heartbeat.

Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, particularly during physical activities.

Chest discomfort: Chest pain, pressure, or anxiety.

Dizziness or light-headedness: Feeling faint or dizzy.

Syncope: Sudden loss of consciousness or fainting.

Anxiety: Feeling anxious or worried.

Reduced exercise tolerance: Inability to perform usual physical activities due to symptoms.

Other symptoms: Nausea, sweating, and lack of energy.