Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of heart arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat). It occurs when the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) beat irregularly or quiver. Without an effective heartbeat, blood isn’t pumped completely out of the atria, causing blood to pool and possibly clot. A clot can travel to other parts of the body, including the brain, where it results in a stroke.
Facts about atrial fibrillation in the United Kingdom
• 2.2 million Americans have been diagnosed with
Atrial fibrillation, but many with the condition are
asymptomatic, so this number is thought to be an
underestimate
• The prevalence for Atrial fibrillation is 1 in 25 for
those ages 60 and older and 1 in 10 for those 80
and older
• There is a five-fold increased risk of stroke in
individuals with Atrial fibrillation
• 15-20% of all strokes, about 75,000 per year, are
attributable to Atrial fibrillation
• There is a 1 in 4 chance of developing Atrial
fibrillation for those over the age of 40
• The presence of Atrial fibrillation is independently
associated with a 50-90% increase in death risk.
Warning signs
Not everybody with atrial fibrillation experiences symptoms, but here are some to keep in mind:
• Heart palpitations (sudden pounding, fluttering or
a racing feeling in the chest)
• Lack of energy
• Lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath, even at rest
Risk factors
The following are risk factors for atrial fibrillation:
• High blood pressure
• Overactive thyroid
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol or caffeine consumption
• Extreme stress or fatigue
• Heart disease
• Lung disease
• Obesity
• Sleep apnoea
• Diabetes
The best way to decrease your risk of atrial fibrillation is to identify your risk factors and work toward eliminating or controlling them. Find out if you are at risk for atrial fibrillation
Diagnosis and screening
Because some people with atrial fibrillation may not experience any symptoms, you should consider taking the Life Line Screening atrial fibrillation screening.
Interested in learning more about atrial fibrillation? Read our FAQs.
