Arrhythmia is a condition in which the heart’s natural electrical circuitry shorts out, causing a fluttering sensation in the chest. The most prevalent arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation (Afib), characterized by an irregular beat in the heart’s upper chambers. This can be related to problems like high blood pressure (hypertension), coronary artery disease (CAD), heart valve disease (HRVD), heart failure (CF), chronic lung illness, and aging. However, Upper East Side atrial fibrillation is not related to any other condition in 10% of patients.
Diarrhea, weariness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and heart palpitations are all possible side effects of Afib. It is also possible that up to 30% of Afib events do not produce any symptoms. However, several widely-held myths might harm your health when living with AFib. The following are widespread misconceptions about atrial fibrillation (AFib):
1. AFib prevents you from exercising.
Regular physical activity has been shown to benefit those with AFib. Regular physical activity improves your heart health and, as a result, reduces the frequency and severity of AFib-related events in your life. If you have an aFib, engaging in mild yoga exercises is a good idea.
2. Atrial fibrillation affects only the elderly.
Having an irregular heartbeat doesn’t always mean you are elderly. Afib may affect anybody of any age. Afib is more likely to occur as you become older, though. Afib affects around 2.5 million people in the United States, with half of the males and half of the females suffering from the condition being over 67 years. However, regardless of age, you are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation if you have heart disease, lung illness, or high blood pressure.
3. There is a cure for AFib.
AFib cannot be healed, according to the Cleveland Clinic. You can reduce the frequency of AFib episodes with medication, which alleviates symptoms, although the effectiveness of the medication diminishes with time. Although catheter ablation or surgery is not a cure for AFib, it is the most effective symptom-relieving treatment.
Any number of stimulants and stressors may bring on events. These include things like smoking, caffeine, and other stimulants throughout the day. AFib may be caused by disorders such as excessive blood pressure and coronary artery disease, and proper management of these illnesses is critical.
4. If catheter ablation fails the first time, it is useless.
About 70% of individuals who undergo ablation for the first time have their symptoms resolved. After the second surgery, this percentage rises to 90%. Depending on the extent of cardiac damage, your doctor may recommend a different action. Still, in general, a second or third ablation may be effective even if the first one was not successful.
5. If you still get Afib episodes, your medication is not functioning.
You can not cure Afib by medication; however, you can reduce the frequency and length of episodes. Once a person’s symptoms are not bothering them, occasionally reducing their frequency of attacks is deemed a sufficient therapy. In the long run, drugs lose their effectiveness, necessitating additional therapeutic techniques such as catheter ablation.
The appropriate knowledge might make all the difference for your health and well-being. Make sure you know all there is to know about AFib and the treatment choices available to you. Also, don’t hesitate to see a cardiologist or electrophysiologist if your primary care physician suggests it.
