Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia in adults. It occurs when the atria, the upper chambers of the heart, lose their normal electrical rhythm and begin to fire rapidly and erratically.
As a result, the heart beats irregularly and, sometimes, too fast. This can cause symptoms, affect quality of life, and significantly increase the risk of serious complications such as stroke.
At the Comprehensive Cardiology Unit, we have a specialized Arrhythmia Unit led by Dr. Juan Benezet , dedicated to the diagnosis , treatment and comprehensive follow-up of patients with atrial fibrillation.
How does the heart normally work?
The heart functions thanks to a sophisticated electrical system that coordinates each beat. Under normal conditions, an electrical signal is generated in an area called the sinoatrial node and spreads in an orderly fashion through the atria and ventricles.
This mechanism allows the heart to pump blood efficiently to all the body's organs.
When atrial fibrillation occurs , these electrical signals become chaotic, and multiple impulses compete with each other within the atria. As a result, the heart loses its regular rhythm, and atrial contraction becomes ineffective.
What symptoms does it produce? atrial fibrillation?
Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some patients experience significant discomfort, while others may not notice any symptoms at all.
The most frequent symptoms are:
- Palpitations or a feeling of irregular heartbeat.
- Episodes of rapid heartbeat.
- Fatigue or excessive tiredness.
- Shortness of breath during normal activities.
- Dizziness or a feeling of unsteadiness.
- Lower exercise tolerance.
- Chest discomfort or pressure.
It is important to note that the absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of risk. Many people discover they have atrial fibrillation during a routine medical checkup.
Why is it important to diagnose it?
Beyond the symptoms, the main concern with atrial fibrillation is its relationship to stroke.
When the atria stop contracting properly, some blood can become trapped in certain areas of the heart, especially the left atrial appendage. This stagnant blood promotes the formation of blood clots.
If one of these clots travels through the bloodstream to the brain, it can cause a stroke.
Studies have shown that atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of stroke fivefold if left untreated. Therefore, stroke prevention is a cornerstone of treatment.
How is it diagnosed? atrial fibrillation?
The diagnosis usually begins with a clinical evaluation and the performance of an electrocardiogram (ECG), a simple, quick and painless test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
Depending on the case, other complementary examinations may be necessary:
- 24 or 48 hour Holter ECG.
- Prolonged monitoring of heart rate.
- Echocardiogram.
- Blood test.
- Advanced cardiac imaging studies.
These tests allow us to confirm the diagnosis , identify possible causes, and design the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
Treatment of atrial fibrillation
Currently, the management of atrial fibrillation is comprehensive and personalized. European cardiology guidelines recommend strategies focused on both arrhythmia control and complication prevention.
1. Stroke prevention through anticoagulation
In patients with a high risk of blood clot formation, anticoagulant treatment is prescribed.
These medications significantly reduce the likelihood of having a stroke by preventing the formation of blood clots within the heart.
2. Heart rate control
In some patients, the main goal is to prevent the heart from beating too fast, thereby improving symptoms and quality of life.
3. Recovery and maintenance of normal rhythm
When indicated, antiarrhythmic drugs or specific procedures may be used to restore normal sinus rhythm.
4. Atrial fibrillation ablation
Ablation is a minimally invasive technique that allows action to be taken on the areas responsible for the arrhythmia using catheters inserted through the veins.
It is currently one of the most effective therapeutic options for certain patients and can significantly improve symptoms and reduce recurrences.
The AF-CARE approach: comprehensive care
Current recommendations emphasize a comprehensive approach to the disease using the AF-CARE model:
C: Comorbidities and cardiovascular factors
Control of high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, heart failure and other associated diseases.
A: Anticoagulation and stroke prevention
Individualized assessment of thromboembolic risk to offer the best possible protection.
R: Control of rhythm and frequency
Treatments aimed at reducing symptoms and improving heart function.
E: Continuous assessment
Periodic follow-up to adapt the treatment to the evolution of each patient.
The fundamental role of lifestyle
The success of treatment depends not only on medication or medical procedures. Healthy habits play a crucial role in managing atrial fibrillation.
The most important measures include:
keep a healthy weight
Weight loss in overweight or obese patients may reduce the frequency of atrial fibrillation episodes.
Perform regular physical exercise
Moderate physical activity improves cardiovascular health and contributes to disease control.
Reduce alcohol consumption
Alcohol is one of the most well-known triggers of atrial fibrillation episodes.
Take care of your sleep
Sleep apnea and other nocturnal breathing disorders are closely associated with this arrhythmia and should be diagnosed and treated.
When to consult a specialist?
It is advisable to seek a cardiology evaluation if you experience:
- Frequent palpitations.
- Sensation of irregular heartbeats.
- Episodes of dizziness or fainting.
- Unexplained shortness of breath.
- Family history of arrhythmias.
- Previous stroke or risk factors cardiovascular risk.
Early diagnosis allows for the initiation of necessary measures to prevent complications and improve the long-term prognosis.
Arrhythmia Unit of the Comprehensive Cardiology Unit
At the Comprehensive Cardiology Unit , the care of patients with atrial fibrillation is carried out from a multidisciplinary and personalized perspective.
The Arrhythmia Unit , led by Dr. Juan Benezet , offers advanced diagnosis , specialized follow-up and access to the most innovative techniques for the treatment of heart rhythm disorders, including ablation procedures and stroke prevention strategies.
Our goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment to restore their quality of life and protect their long-term cardiovascular health.