Atrial fibrillation, also called AFib, is an irregular heartbeat caused by a lack of coordination between the atria and ventricles. It is the most common form of heart arrhythmia and can trigger blood clots in the heart. This condition is often accompanied by other cardiovascular and autoimmune issues like diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension. Here is a look at the causes and symptoms of atrial fibrillation, along with common treatment options.

Causes
Genetic predisposition: Familial atrial fibrillation is caused by certain genetic mutations and is a typically less common cause of this condition. Mutations to the gene KCNQ1—responsible for the creation of potassium channels in the outer membrane of the heart muscles—can be one of the genetic causes of AFib. However, other gene mutations have also been linked with this heart problem.

Hypertension: Research suggests that uncontrolled high blood pressure or hypertension can trigger or increase one’s risk of developing the condition. Meticulously managing blood pressure levels through treatment options and certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation induced by high blood pressure.

Chronic health and autoimmune conditions: People with chronic health conditions like diabetes, kidney and lung diseases, and other metabolic disorders are at a considerably higher risk of cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation.

Obstructive sleep apnea: Here, the tongue, soft palate, and other muscles controlling the passage of air may relax involuntarily, obstructing breath. Chronic obstructive sleep apnea often hampers the functioning of the atrium, resulting in atrial fibrillation. Treating obstructive sleep apnea can significantly reduce the risk and impact of AFib among patients.

Elevated stress levels: While stress is not a direct cause of atrial fibrillation, persistent high-stress levels can directly affect the heart, contributing to the onset of the condition. Stress can worsen the impact of atrial fibrillation on individuals already vulnerable to the disorder.

Symptoms
Heart palpitations : The American Heart Association classifies “fluttering heart” or heart palpitations as the most prominent symptom of atrial fibrillation. While the ideal heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute when the body is at rest, this might elevate up to 140 among individuals with the condition.

Strokes: Individuals with the disease often experience severe strokes, often even silent ones, when blood clots in the atrium travel to the brain. The possibility of stroke is 4–6 times higher among individuals dealing with atrial fibrillation, which is the direct cause of 1 out of 4 strokes in the country.

Tiredness and fatigue: Atrial fibrillation can cause severe fatigue due to a lack of blood supply to the heart. People with the condition can control or eliminate fatigue by avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, eating healthy, and following a proper treatment course.

Breathlessness: Atrial contraction during ventricular relaxation or diastole—referred to as “atrial kick”—is severely hampered among people with atrial fibrillation. This results in severe shortness of breath, which is accompanied by fatigue and chronic weakness.

Fainting spells: Arrhythmia can often trigger fainting spells and lightheadedness. Patients may even pass out and injure themselves during such episodes. It is important to have a nurse, caregiver, or family member around if one is prone to fainting spells resulting from the condition.

Treatment options
Ablation: This is typically recommended for patients with AFib when they do not respond to other forms of intervention. Here, a thin tube is inserted into a large blood vessel, and tiny scars are created in the heart to treat an irregular heartbeat. Following the cardiologist’s guidance and instructions is crucial during the operative and post-operative phases.

Surgical intervention: Cardiologists may also recommend heart surgery if patients with AFib are unresponsive to other treatments. The surgical procedure for atrial fibrillation typically involves precise cuts on the surface of the heart’s upper chambers to break electrical signals. This helps regulate one’s heartbeat, treating atrial fibrillation and preventing other cardiovascular conditions.

Pacemaker: A pacemaker is a compact, battery-operated device surgically implanted near the heart to regulate its pace. Although individuals with pacemakers can lead normal lives after the procedure, they may have to follow certain restrictions, which cardiologists and healthcare professionals specify during and after surgery.

Alternative treatments: Although these options may not suffice in severe cases of atrial fibrillation, they can relieve the symptoms and help one recover quickly. Yoga, breathing, and meditation can do wonders for heart health and help lower blood pressure. Acupuncture, some forms of Chinese herbal treatment, and exercises like squats can also help monitor heart rate and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Lifestyle changes
Avoid processed foods: Processed foods contain high levels of saturated fats, sugar, and salt, and they are linked to major autoimmune diseases like diabetes, cholesterol, and heart problems. Such comorbid conditions can trigger or worsen atrial fibrillation symptoms. So, individuals diagnosed with or susceptible to the condition should avoid processed foods.

Manage stress: Elevated stress levels significantly contribute to the worsening of atrial fibrillation conditions. So, people who experience high levels of stress must identify the causal factors, such as work, household chores, and unpleasant life situations, and try to control or eliminate these stressors. For instance, individuals prone to long working hours and at risk for AF should consider changing their jobs or opting for part-time opportunities.

Better food choices: Following a comprehensive meal plan rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, and other essential nutrients is integral to recovering from atrial fibrillation. The food intake should comprise a healthy blend of fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods (like eggs, fatty fish, and chicken), legumes, whole grains, and olive oil, among other foods.

Adopt an active lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle reduces blood flow and can worsen one’s atrial fibrillation symptoms. However, high-intensity exercises and cardio activities can induce shortness of breath and should be avoided. Low-intensity activities like stretching and walking can contribute to an active lifestyle, helping one prevent AFib and other health conditions.

Today, with access to advanced interventions and scientific research, atrial fibrillation can be controlled and treated effectively. Further, early diagnosis and treatment and certain lifestyle changes can facilitate a speedy recovery.