Persistent AFib : When Is Atrial Fibrillation Considered Persistent and How Do You Live With It?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the leading cause of stroke and can increase the risk of heart failure, cardiac arrest, and other cardiovascular complications. It is also associated with an increased risk of mortality. As per estimates made by the CDC (Ref. Link) 12.1 million people in the United States will have AFib in 2030.

How to live with Persistent AFib?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of abnormal heart rhythm that can be managed with the help of healthcare and lifestyle changes. If you have long-standing persistent AFib, which has lasted for more than a year, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan to manage your condition and reduce the risk of complications. Here are some strategies that may be helpful for living with long-standing persistent AFib:

1. Take medication as prescribed: Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication to help control your heart rhythm and prevent complications such as a stroke. It is important to take this medications as prescribed and report any adverse effects or concerns to your healthcare provider.
2. Follow a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption can help to improve heart health and manage persistent AFib.
3. Manage stress: Stress can trigger AFib episodes or make them more frequent. Strategies such as deep breathing, meditation, and exercise can help to manage stress and reduce the risk of AFib.
4. Get regular medical checkups: It is important to see your healthcare provider regularly to monitor your heart health and AFib. Your healthcare provider may recommend tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart rhythm and determine the need for any changes to your treatment plan.
5. Find support: Living with a chronic condition can be challenging. Seeking support from friends, family, or a support group can be helpful in managing the emotional and practical aspects of living with long-standing persistent AFib.

What is the difference between Paroxysmal, Persistent, and Chronic AFib?

Paroxysmal AFib is characterised by episodes of AFib that come and go. These episodes can last from a few minutes to a few days, and can be triggered by factors such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, or exercise. Paroxysmal AFib is often self-terminating, meaning that it can stop on its own without treatment.

Persistent AFib is a continuous or sustained episode of AFib that lasts for more than seven days. Medical intervention may be required to return the heart to a normal rhythm. Persistent AFib is more serious than paroxysmal AF because it increases the risk of stroke and other complications.

Chronic AFib is a term that is sometimes used to describe AFib that has been present for a long time, typically more than a year. 

It is important to note that the terms “chronic” and “persistent” are not interchangeable. Persistent AFib refers to a specific type of AFib that is continuous or sustained for more than seven days, while chronic AFib refers to AFib that has simply been present for a long time. 

How do doctors determine when a patient has long standing Atrial Fibrillation?

A doctor will do a physical examination and ask questions about your symptoms to diagnose Persistent Atrial Fibrillation. Since paroxysmal Afib frequently progresses to Persistent Afib, your doctor may already be checking you for it regularly.

Even if your heart rhythm is normal during your appointment, your doctor may recommend a Holter or mobile heart monitor. These monitors can keep tabs on your heart rate for a full day. Arrhythmias can also be detected with the use of fitness tracker data. You can use a chest strap ECG machine or heart rate monitor to record your heart’s electrical activity easily. 

Who is susceptible to long-standing persistent AFib?

AFib can appear in anyone at any age. Having AFib is possible if you:

1. Have high blood pressure and are over 60
2. Have a cardiac condition or heart-related structural issue
3. Suffer from heart disease, having had sinus problems operation
4. Have a history of AFib in your family, and are a binge drinker
5. Develop sleep apnea
6. Have long-term illnesses, including asthma, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism

What are the risk factors for long-standing persistent AFib?

1. Medication

A higher risk of developing AFib has been linked to high doses of steroids for asthma or another illness. This type of treatment for other conditions could bring on an episode if your risk is already elevated. Over-the-counter cold remedies containing caffeine or other chemicals that increase heart rate can have the same effect.

2. Obesity, Diabetes, And Metabolic Syndrome

These disorders are associated with an increased risk of hypertension and may hinder the heart’s ability to pump blood. They increase the likelihood of Atrial Fibrillation and also cause other bodily abnormalities.

3. Atrial Tissue Injuries

Injuries to the atrial tissue that result from a blocked artery are the leading cause of Atrial Fibrillation. However, AFib does not typically cause heart attacks unless the pulse rate is extremely rapid.

4. Genes

Atrial Fibrillation runs in families. The genes you take from your parents may have contributed to your predisposition; if a member of your immediate family has it or has had it in the past, your risk increases.

It can be more challenging to treat Persistent AFib if it goes undetected for a lengthy period. Persistent AFib, if left untreated, might become permanent AFib. Stroke, heart attack, and death are all more likely when you have AFib, regardless of its severity or duration.

Complications from AFib can be avoided with proper management and treatment. It’s important to discuss treatment options with your doctor if you’ve been diagnosed with persistent AFib. The primary goal at this stage is to prevent the situation from worsening to a more permanent one.

 Finally, as mentioned earlier, using a smart heart monitor allows you to constantly keep tabs on the functioning of your heart. Purchase the revolutionary Frontier X2 heart monitoring device, and stay on top of your heart health at all times!

Frequently Asked Questions :

Which type of fibrillation is the most serious?

Although ventricular fibrillation is not as prevalent as AFib, it is much more dangerous. In the United States, it is the primary cause of death due to cardiac arrest.

What is the best exercise to engage in if I have Atrial Fibrillation?

After you’ve warmed up, you may get a solid workout without overtaxing your heart by doing power walking, jogging, or trekking. Workouts, including cardio equipment such as a stationary bike, elliptical trainer, or treadmill, are also acceptable for those with AFib.

What is considered a long episode of AFib?

To be classified as persistent AFib, an episode must last longer than seven days. Without medical intervention, it will continue. Drugs or electric shock therapy may be used to restore normal rhythm. AFib may be chronic or permanent and last for a very long time.

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