More than two million adults in the US have atrial-fibrillation or A-fib, according to the National Institute on Health. Scientific American pegs the number of people with A-fib much higher at one in three adults over 40, likely because it is believed that many people have A-fib and do not know it. But, it’s important to know because A-fib can kill you if you don’t ensure it’s in check, causing strokes, heart attacks, blood clots and dementia.
What is A-fib? Simply put, A-fib is an irregular fast heartbeat that can lead to chest pain, lightheadedness and shortness of breath. Consequently, your lower heart chambers do not pump enough blood to your lungs and body. A-fib can affect your quality of life. But, many people have A-fib and don’t even realize it because it can pass quickly
What causes A-fib? Your atria–which is in your heart’s upper chambers–have electrical signals that do not function properly. Consequently, your heart does not have a regular beat, your blood pools instead of pumping to your heart’s lower chambers.
How to treat A-fib? There are lots of things you can do to treat A-fib and minimize its risks. You can take medication or get a cardioversion that essentially directs your heart back to a normal beat. Pulsed field ablation is another treatment.
Why is treating A-fib quickly important? Early diagnosis and treatment of A-fib improves health. Returning your heartbeat to a normal rhythm as soon as possible changes the way A-fib progresses.
What to do if you have A-fib? Eat healthy, don’t smoke, and cut back on alcohol. The sooner you change these behaviors the better. There are also medications that can slow heart rate and control your heart’s rhythm. Here are the latest guidelines.
If you’re able to splurge, an Apple Watch can identify any irregularities in your heartbeat.
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