Atrial fibrillation, often called Afib, is a heart condition characterized by irregular heartbeats, affecting around 2.7 to 6.1 million people in the country. If left untreated, it can lead to several other severe health issues and complications, such as stroke and blood clots. So, recognizing its warning signs and symptoms and knowing about its causes and risk factors can help with timely intervention and better management in the long run.

What is Afib?
Afib is a heart rhythm disorder that affects the heart’s upper chambers (atria). Instead of beating in a regular, coordinated rhythm, the atria quiver or fibrillate. This irregular rhythm can disrupt blood flow, potentially leading to blood clots, stroke, and other heart-related complications.

Afib signs and symptoms
The condition can lead to various warning signs and symptoms, a few of which are discussed below. Those who experience these should schedule a visit with a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance:

• Palpitations
  One of the most common signs is a rapid, irregular heartbeat that can be felt. Some describe it as a fluttering or thumping sensation in the chest. Individuals must not ignore palpitations, especially if they become more frequent.
• Fatigue
  Afib can lead to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body, causing fatigue and weakness. As a result, one may feel the urge to rest all day and avoid physical activity. However, Afib-induced fatigue may not get better with rest.
• Shortness of breath
  Patients with this condition often experience difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or when lying flat. It’s among the most common Afib symptoms to look out for.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  Irregular heartbeats can disrupt the normal flow of blood to the brain, resulting in dizziness or lightheadedness. It can make tasks like driving dangerous.
• Chest pain or discomfort
  Afib itself isn’t typically associated with chest pain. However, underlying heart conditions that often accompany it can cause chest discomfort.
• Confusion
  Insufficient blood flow to the brain can lead to confusion, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating. Consequently, one may be unable to perform well at mental tasks.
• Exercise intolerance
  If someone suddenly finds that they can no longer engage in physical activity due to unexplained breathlessness or a rapid heart rate, it could be an early sign of Afib.

While everyone should watch for these Afib signs, those in the high-risk group should be more vigilant than others.

Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of Afib is unclear, but experts say several factors, such as hypertension and high blood glucose, could contribute to its development. Here are a few risk factors one should always be mindful of:

• Age
  Afib can affect people of all ages but is more common in older adults, particularly those over the age of 60.
• Heart conditions
  Various heart conditions can increase the risk of Afib, including coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, heart failure, and congenital heart defects.
• High blood pressure
  Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for Afib. Elevated blood pressure can cause changes in the heart’s structure and function, increasing the likelihood of irregular heart rhythms.
• Heart attacks
  A previous heart attack or myocardial infarction can scar heart tissue, making Afib more likely.
• Heart surgery
  Individuals who have undergone heart surgery, particularly procedures involving the heart’s valves or the removal of the atria’s left atrial appendage, may be at increased risk.
• Chronic conditions
  Chronic conditions like diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and lung disease can increase a person’s risk of developing the disorder.
• Stress and fatigue
  Severe stress, exhaustion, or sleep deprivation can lead to Afib episodes in some individuals. However, these factors are easier to control.
• Genetics
  Family history can play a role in Afib, suggesting a genetic predisposition in some cases.
• Other factors
  Other possible contributing factors include viral infections, electrolyte imbalances, and chronic inflammation.

Those who fall into any of these high-risk groups should pay special attention to their heart health. One can visit an expert for regular screenings if required. However, it’s important to note that sometimes Afib can occur without an apparent reason, referred to as “lone Afib.” No underlying heart disease or other conditions are identified as the cause in these cases.

Can Afib be cured?
Afib is typically considered a chronic condition, meaning it doesn’t have a permanent cure in the traditional sense. However, its symptoms can often be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes. Consequently, many patients lead normal, healthy lives in the long run like any other person. However, for this to happen, one must work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized management strategy and monitor their condition regularly.

Afib is a manageable condition, especially when detected and treated early. Awareness of the signs and symptoms can help people act at the right time. Those who experience the Afib early warnings discussed above should feel free to consult a healthcare provider.