Cardiovascular health involves the well-being of the heart and the blood vessels. The heart is vital in pumping blood and keeping us alive. Hence, it is critical to observe habits that promote wellness and function. Cardiovascular conditions are quite common, affecting about 48% of people in the US. Usually, the conditions are life-threatening and may lead to death when not treated in time. Among the diseases includes atrial fibrillation in Frisco that occurs due to a disrupted heartbeat. Find out more about the condition and the treatments available at Prime Heart and Vascular.
What is atrial fibrillation?
Usually, cells in the heart help control how the heart contracts and relaxes. They also help maintain the blood flow, your cognitive function, and your organs’ health.
Atrial fibrillation occurs when the heart’s upper chambers do not beat at the same rate as the lower chambers. It causes the chambers to beat at a higher speed where the heart cannot reach, failing to pump the required blood amount to other body parts.
What causes atrial fibrillation?
Various factors can lead to atrial fibrillation, but the most common include:
- Lung disease
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Heart injuries
- Coronary artery disease
- Pneumonia
- Improper functioning of the heart’s organic pacemaker
- Viral infections
- Abnormal heart valves
- Overexposure to stimulants such as caffeine
Types of atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation occurs in four types, each with different symptoms and effects.
Paroxysmal fibrillation
This type of fibrillation happens after your heart finds its rhythm without the use of medication for seven days. It may cause unpredictable symptoms that lead to severe fibrillation when not given proper care.
Long-standing atrial fibrillation
It is a condition where the heart sustains an irregular rhythm for a year. You may need continued care for this type of fibrillation.
Persistent atrial fibrillation
It occurs when the heart keeps an irregular rhythm beyond seven days. You can receive treatment options to restore the normal heart rhythm.
Permanent atrial fibrillation
It happens when the heart cannot resume its regular rhythm. Your provider helps you find lasting treatments to enhance your health and prevent complications.
Symptoms of atrial fibrillation
Not everyone may show the symptoms of atrial fibrillation. However, the most typical ones include:
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Faintness
If you experience chest pain, you must seek medical attention right away as it may signal a heart attack.
What are the treatments for atrial fibrillation?
At Prime Heart and Vascular, Dr. Shah offers non-surgical and medication treatment options for atrial fibrillation.
Medications work by treating and preventing blood clots that result from atrial fibrillation. The blood clots can cause strokes when not treated.
Electrical cardioversion resets the heartbeat rhythm to regular by administering an electrical shock to the chest.
Like most cardiovascular conditions, you can prevent atrial fibrillation through:
- Regular health check-ups
- Taking healthy and nutritious diets
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing stress effectively
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Avoiding smoking
- Observing your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Regular physical activity
Atrial fibrillation affects your heartbeat rhythm disrupting your heart’s function in pumping blood. Though risky, there are effective treatments to restore your health and lower your risk of complications. If you are experiencing any signs of atrial fibrillation, consider talking with the specialists today for help. Call Prime Heart and Vascular offices today to schedule your consultation.