Learn about atrial fibrillation screening.
Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia or irregular heart rhythm. It is a significant risk factor for stroke. Your risk of stroke increases five-fold if you have Afib.
During Afib, the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) beat irregularly or quiver, instead of beating effectively. As a result, the blood isn’t pumped completely out of the atria and may pool. Pooled blood is likely to form a clot. If the clot dislodges from the atria, it can travel to the brain (or other parts of the body) and block blood flow, causing a stroke.
Atrial Fibrillation can occur with or without symptoms. It can be chronic or intermittent.
Atrial Fibrillation Stats
- 2.2 million Americans have been diagnosed with Afib, but many with the condition are asymptomatic, so this number is thought to be an underestimate
- The prevalence for Afib 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 AF
- 15-20% of all strokes, about 75,000 per year, are attributable to AF
- There is a 1 in 4 chance of developing Afib for those over the age of 40
- The presence of Afib is independently associated with a 50-90% increase in death risk.
References available upon request.
What can cause atrial fibrillation?
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease – valve problems, history of heart attack, heart failure, recent heart surgery, and structural defects
- Chronic lung disease
- Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)
- Obesity
- Sleep Apnea
- Diabetes
- Less common causes include thyroid disorders, viral infections and excessive alcohol or caffeine use
How is Afib treated?
- Afib can be treated by medications such as aspirin or warfarin to prevent blood clots. In some cases, surgery may be required. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of Afib, your symptoms and medical history.
- Treatment goals for Afib include 1) preventing blood clots; 2) controlling the heart rate; and 3) restoring a normal heart rhythm.
Learn about atrial fibrillation screening.
