Atrial Fibrillation Is Common
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is the most commonly diagnosed abnormal heart arrhythmia. Afib gets worse over time. It is best to have atrial fibrillation treated before it progresses and causes other health problems.1
The Stages of Afib
As Afib progresses, there are different stages and symptoms someone may experience based on the duration.
Paroxysmal
Stops spontaneously or with intervention within 7 days of the onset.
Persistent
Lasts beyond 7 days but is less than 12 months in duration.
Long-Standing Persistent
Lasts beyond 12 months.
Long-standing persistent is also referred to advanced, chronic and permanent Afib. If you’ve been in Afib for longer than 12 months, take a quick screener to see if you qualify for Hybrid AF Therapy.
How is Afib Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will start by getting information about your medical history. This will likely include:
- A physical exam
- Blood tests
- An ECG or EKG
- A stress test
Other tests may be done by a cardiologist or electrophysiologist. Longer-term testing of your heart can be done with monitors you either wear for a short time or have implanted in your chest for a longer period.
"Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm in adults. It is driven principally by aging and will affect about one in three human beings over the course of their lives."
Dr. Zayd Eldadah, MD, PhD
Electrophysiologist
Symptoms and Causes of Afib
Afib is considered a part of aging. In fact, 1 in 4 over the age of 40 will develop Afib in their lifetime. Other risk factors include:
- Family history
- Heart problems or heart surgery
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Sleep apnea
- Caffeine, nicotine or illegal drug use
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Changes in the level of body minerals
- Other long-term health conditions
Early signs of Afib can be mild, with symptoms including:
Palpitations
Fluttering feeling in the chest
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Symptoms of persistent and long-standing persistent, can be different and more severe.
Shortness of Breath
Weakness
Fatigue
Pain in the Chest
Pressure in the Chest
Lowered Blood Pressure
Dizziness or Fainting
Feeling Lightheaded
In the past, people with long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation had fewer treatment options to stop their Afib. Now, Hybrid AF Therapy is an option.
Sources
- Benussi, S., & de Maat, G.E. (2018). Atrial remodelling and function: implications for atrial fibrillation surgery. European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery, 53(i1):i2–i8, https://doi.org/10.1093/ejcts/ezx340
PM-US-1640D-0626-G
