AFib : What are the Types of Atrial Fibrillation, Symptoms and Treatment

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. It occurs when the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) experience rapid, uncoordinated contractions, causing them to quiver or flutter rather than contract in a coordinated way. This can cause the blood to pool in the atria and increase the risk of blood clots forming. 

What are the types of atrial fibrillation?

There are three types of atrial fibrillation and their treatment specifications are mentioned below:

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Paroxysmal Atrial fibrillation, also known as episodic or intermittent Atrial fibrillation, is a type of intermittent AF. Episodes can last minutes, hours, or days, but no more than a week. The treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) is similar to the treatment of AF in general, but it may be more focused on preventing the recurrence of AF episodes. 

Persistent atrial fibrillation 

Persistent atrial fibrillation, also known as chronic atrial fibrillation, is an episode that lasts more than seven days at a time. While the treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is usually the same as it is for general AFib, it may be more focused on restoring a normal heart rhythm and preventing the recurrence of AF. 

Long-term persistent or permanent Atrial fibrillation

This is Atrial fibrillation that lasts more than a year. Since atrial fibrillation is a degenerative condition, people with paroxysmal AF may develop persistent or permanent AF over time. The treatment of permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) is more focused on controlling the heart rate and rhythm and preventing complications.

What do atrial fibrillation’s symptoms and treatment look like?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heartbeat that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Palpitations (a sensation of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat)
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Fatigue

It can also lead to other serious complications, such as an increased risk of stroke or heart failure. The treatment of AFib depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of any underlying medical conditions. 

Some common treatments for AFib include:

• Medication: There is a lot of medication that can help control the heart rate and rhythm of AF patients. These may include beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and blood thinners.
• Cardioversion: This procedure uses electricity or medication to restore a normal heart rhythm. It may be done in a hospital setting or on an outpatient basis.  A mild electrical shock is delivered to the heart through the electrodes placed on the chest. The shock is delivered in a controlled manner, and the patient should not feel any discomfort. In some cases, cardioversion may be done using medication instead of electricity. In this case, the patient is given medication that can help restore a normal heart rhythm. Cardioversion is generally considered safe and effective in treating AF, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with a healthcare provider before deciding whether to undergo cardioversion.
• Catheter ablation: In this procedure, a small catheter is inserted through a vein in the leg and guided to the heart. Radiofrequency energy or laser energy is then used to destroy the tissue responsible for the abnormal heart rhythm.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to repair or remove the part of the heart causing the abnormal rhythm. The specific surgical option will depend on the patient’s overall health and the underlying cause of their AF.

Some common surgical options for AFib include:

• Maze procedure: This is a type of surgery that involves creating a pattern of scars in the heart to help prevent abnormal electrical signals from spreading. It may be recommended for people with AF that is not able to be controlled using medication or other treatments.
• Atrial fibrillation ablation: This procedure involves the use of a small catheter to destroy the tissue responsible for the abnormal heart rhythm. It may be recommended for people with AF that is not able to be controlled using medication or other treatments.
• Surgical ablation: This procedure involves the use of surgical instruments to destroy the tissue responsible for the abnormal heart rhythm. It may be recommended for people with AF that is not able to be controlled using medication or other treatments.
• Heart valve surgery: In some cases, AFib may be caused by a problem with one or more of the heart’s valves. In these cases, surgery to repair or replace the affected valve(s) may be recommended.

It’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs. The doctors will decide on the best treatment option for the patient. It is critical to stick to the atrial fibrillation treatment plan. A-fib, if not managed properly, could give rise to other health problems such as strokes and heart failure. 

The best way to deal with AFib is to be continually aware of your heart’s condition. Use a heart rate monitor device such as the Frontier X2 with a continuous ECG feature to always be on top of your heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What causes the onset of atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is caused by changes or damage to the tissue and electrical system of the heart. Those changes are usually caused by coronary artery disease or high blood pressure. A triggered heartbeat frequently initiates atrial fibrillation. However, it can be difficult to determine the cause of a heartbeat trigger.

What effects does atrial fibrillation have on my body?

When you have Afib, your heart’s electrical system isn’t working properly. Since the electrical impulses are chaotic, the heartbeat is irregular and rapid. When the pulse is irregular, one may wonder what’s happening inside the heart. Understanding the distinctions between a regular heartbeat and what occurs when an individual has Afib is useful.

Can Afib be cured?

When one suffers from paroxysmal Afib, their symptoms may resolve without treatment. However, depending on your risk factors, paroxysmal Afib can progress to persistent Afib. To avoid serious complications, both persistent Afib and long-standing persistent Afib require medical attention. Afib becomes more severe and difficult to treat as it progresses. Although Afib cannot be cured, its symptoms can be controlled.

Is atrial fibrillation dangerous?

The irregular heartbeat caused by Afib is not fatal. The issue is that it increases the chance of an individual developing blood clots, which can restrict blood supply to other organs.

Other Heart Health Topics To Explore:

Stress impact on Women’s Heart | Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation | Arrhythmia Causes | Aquatic Exercise for Heart Health | Yoga for Heart Health |  Low Carb Diet | Heart Palpitations After Eating | Causes of Increased Heart rate | Healthy Heart Tips |  Best ECG Monitors

Frontier X2:

Smart Heart ECG Monitor in USA | ECG Machine Price in India | Best Heart Rate Monitor UK