Atrial fibrillation is a violation of the rhythm of the heart, which is characterized by a sinking or rapid heartbeat. The prevalence of pathology increases over the years – the older the person, the greater the likelihood of developing pathology. One of the types of disorders is atrial fibrillation, in which an abnormally fast heart rhythm is felt, due to the frequency of contraction of the ventricles. Left untreated, the disease can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or blood clots.
Risk factors
The main risk factors contributing to the development of pathology, experts include:
- Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle;
- HIV infection;
- Genetic predisposition;
- Smoking and alcohol abuse;
- Constant stress;
- Genetic mutations;
- Excessive physical exertion.
To prevent atrial fibrillation and other heart pathologies, it is recommended to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Symptoms
Clinical signs and the intensity of symptoms directly depend on the functional state of the body and the severity of the disorders. The main signs of the pathology include:
- Heart palpitations;
- Dizziness;
- Shortness of breath;
- Fainting conditions and loss of consciousness;
- Pain and discomfort behind the sternum;
- Feeling of lack of air;
- Frequent urination;
- General weakness, fatigue.
Diagnosis and treatment
When contacting our clinic, a comprehensive examination is mandatory for the patient. If there is a suspicion of atrial fibrillation or an already established diagnosis, the patient may be prescribed:
- radiography,
- transthoracic echocardiography,
- blood test,
- Holter monitoring,
- check of condition and measurement of indications during physical exertion.
The treatment for atrial fibrillation in Tel Aviv Medical Clinic varies depending on the type of atrial fibrillation. If there are several risk factors, patients with atrial fibrillation are treated with drugs or anticoagulants (such as warfarin) to restore sinus rhythm and prevent stroke. Medication to slow heart rate and rhythm, in which beta-blockers and calcium blockers are used.
Surgical methods for treating atrial fibrillation include:
- «Labyrinth» – the operation is performed under general anaesthesia in the open heart.
- «Corridor» is a surgical operation in which the left and right atria are isolated from the interatrial septum.
- The method of radio-frequency catheter destruction (ablation) – is carried out in especially severe cases of atrial fibrillation.
