Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common rhythm disorders of the heart and occurs in the upper part of the heart chambers called the atria. Normally, the heart beats in a regular and coordinated way, which allows blood to be pumped around the body. But in AF, the muscles of the upper chambers, called atria, contract irregularly and coordination is lost. The atria therefore quiver or fibrillate instead.
Atrial fibrillation can lead to serious complications if left untreated, so a doctor should be consulted when diagnosed or when experiencing symptoms.
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation can have many different causes and these causes are often associated with risk factors. The causes and risk factors of atrial fibrillation can be listed as follows:
Age: Age can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. It is especially more common in people over the age of 60.
Hypertension (high blood pressure): High blood pressure can cause damage to the heart chambers and arteries, which increases the risk of AF.
Heart diseases: Heart diseases are an important factor that increases the risk of atrial fibrillation. In particular, valvular heart disease, heart failure and coronary artery disease can lead to AF.
Diabetes: Diabetes can increase the risk of AF.
Familial Predisposition: If you have a family history of atrial fibrillation, your risk may increase due to the influence of genetic factors.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation.
Alcohol and Caffeine Consumption: Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption can increase the risk of AF.
Smoking: Smoking can negatively affect the health of the heart and circulatory system and increase the risk of AF.
Thyroid Problems: Over or underactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism) can lead to atrial fibrillation.
Chronic Lung Diseases: Chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can increase the risk of AF.
Medications and Other Factors: Some medications and factors such as amphetamine or narcotic use can lead to atrial fibrillation.
Other Health Problems: Other health problems such as rheumatic heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea and kidney failure can also increase the risk of AF.
What are the Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation?
Symptoms of atrial fibrillation can vary from person to person, and some people may not experience obvious symptoms, while others may experience more uncomfortable symptoms. Common symptoms can include:
- Fast and irregular heartbeats,
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort,
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting,
- Hearing problems
- Compression of the chest,
- General discomfort.
AF symptoms can often affect the severity and frequency of symptoms. Some people rarely experience symptoms, while others may face symptoms constantly. Also, AF symptoms can lead to other health problems or complications, so these symptoms should be taken seriously and a doctor should be consulted. Treatment is planned individually, depending on the severity of the symptoms, the patient's age, health history and other factors.
How is Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosed?
Atrial fibrillation can be diagnosed by a doctor or cardiologist using various methods. The steps usually followed for diagnosis are as follows:
- Anamnesis (patient's history),
- Physical examination
- Electrocardiography (ECG or ECG),
- Holter monitor or portable monitors,
- Echocardiography (ECHO),
- Blood tests.
Atrial fibrillation can be diagnosed by a doctor or cardiologist using various methods. The steps usually followed for diagnosis are as follows:
Anamnesis (Patient's History): The doctor listens to the patient's symptoms and medical history. The doctor tries to find out when the symptoms started, how often they occur, how long they last and other important details.
Physical Examination: The doctor physically examines the patient. He listens to the heartbeat and looks for certain signs, but physical examination alone is not enough to diagnose AF.
Electrocardiography (ECG or ECG): Electrocardiography is an important diagnostic tool used to study heart rhythm and rhythm disturbances. An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect rhythm disturbances such as atrial fibrillation. However, because AF is a condition that can occur at specific moments, the patient may need to be caught during AF episodes.
Holter Monitor or Portable Monitors: Since symptoms are irregular and rare in some patients, portable monitors or Holter monitors can be used to monitor the electrical activity of the heart over a long period of time.
Echocardiography (ECHO): Echocardiography is an ultrasound method used to visualize heart structure and function. This can help assess the underlying causes of AF and the size of the heart chambers.
Blood Tests: Blood tests can be used to assess thyroid function, electrolyte balance and other potential causes.
AF is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, electrocardiogram results and other test results. The doctor determines the best approach to the diagnosis and assesses the patient's treatment needs.
How is atrial fibrillation treated?
The main goal of atrial fibrillation treatment is to control symptoms and prevent potential risks. Various medications prescribed by specialists during this treatment process provide effective protection in the majority of patients. Commonly used drugs in this treatment include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and digoxin, which are the main means to correct the irregular rhythm of the heart. It is also common to use blood thinners to reduce the risk of clots forming during the disease.
Although medication is the main approach, in some cases other treatment modalities may be needed. Procedures such as electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation, surgical ablation and pacemaker implantation can be used as non-drug alternatives.