What is the best way to exercise if you have AF? Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity (which means your breathing and heart rate is faster than usual, but you can still have a conversation). You can break this down into smaller chunks.
Now the good news is, the type of heart failure that atrial fibrillation causes typically is reversible. And that if you slow the atrial fibrillation down, or get rid of it, the lower chamber of the heart commonly will recover either completely or almost completely.
With this type of atrial fibrillation, the heart rhythm doesn't go back to normal on its own. If a person has A-fib symptoms, cardioversion or treatment with medications may be used to restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm.
Without treatment, atrial fibrillation (A-fib) can lower a person's life expectancy due to the risk of serious complications. However, with proper treatment, people with A-fib can often lead long, healthy lives.
Atrial fibrillation can also lead to heart failure. Heart failure is a condition in which your heart can't circulate enough blood to meet your body's needs. Afib's irregular, fast heart beat leads to ineffective pumping of the blood which – especially if not controlled – may weaken the heart.
There is no cure for persistent atrial fibrillation. But treatment can slow or prevent symptoms, making it easier for you to manage the condition. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and drinking less alcohol can also help reduce abnormal heart rhythms and prevent complications.
Untreated AFib can raise your risk for problems like a heart attack, stroke, and heart failure, which could shorten your life expectancy. But treatments and lifestyle changes can help prevent these problems and manage your risks.
Ways a person can try to stop an A-fib episode on their own include taking slow, deep breaths, or coughing. The ideal way for a person to stop an A-fib episode is to see a doctor for evaluation and treatment of their symptoms, including treatment of any underlying disorders.
What is the best way to exercise if you have AF? Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity (which means your breathing and heart rate is faster than usual, but you can still have a conversation). You can break this down into smaller chunks.
Try to keep your heart at a normal rate and rhythm as much as possible. Try to avoid things that trigger your AF and remember to take your medication as prescribed. Regular exercise, a healthy diet and quality sleep also play a key role in preventing fatigue.
Cardioversion is a procedure your healthcare provider uses to put your heart back into a normal rhythm. They can use a device or medicine to change your heart rhythm. A cardioversion can save your life if you're having a ventricular arrhythmia that could lead to a sudden cardiac arrest.
WEDNESDAY, March 8, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- A quicker, safer option for treating an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation might be just months away. Atrial fibrillation is currently treated with drugs or a procedure known as thermal ablation.
Paroxysmal Afib lasts less than one week and usually stops on its own without treatment. (Paroxysmal is pronounced par-ək-ˈsiz-məl.) Persistent Afib lasts more than one week and needs treatment. Long-standing persistent Afib lasts more than a year and is sometimes difficult to treat.
Whether or not Afib shortens a person's lifespan depends on whether or not he or she can get their heart rate and anticoagulation under control. If controlled, then Afib doesn't shorten a person's lifespan.
The basics include not smoking, following a heart-healthy Mediterranean-style diet (high in plant-based foods, fruits and vegetables, and low in saturated fats), being physically active and keeping to a normal weight (as indicated on a body-mass index chart).
While patients who have elevated stroke risks may be able to manage symptoms of AFib — such as a racing heartbeat — with other medications or medical procedures, they will still need to take blood thinners to protect against stroke.
Over time, Afib can contribute to heart attack or heart failure. It can also cause serious complications, such as blood clots and stroke. If you're experiencing Afib symptoms, keep track of them and talk to your health care provider.
What is a Normal Heart Rate for Someone with Atrial Fibrillation? The normal heart rate for someone without A-fib typically runs from 60-100 beats per minute, while a patient with A-fib may see a heart rate jump to 100-200 beats per minute.
Patients with AFib can generally fly without issue. However, it is important that all patients are prepared. Firstly, patients should only fly if their disease is under control. Talk with your doctor to make sure that you are a good candidate for travel.