Up Close Publications
  • Home
  • Read Articles
    • Community
    • Education
    • Events
    • Finance
    • Food + Dining
    • Health + Beauty
    • Holidays
    • Home Improvement
    • Las Sendas Golf Club: A Closer Look
    • Local Business
    • Over 50
    • Real Estate
    • Sports
  • Events
  • Service Directory
  • Advertisers
  • Testimonials
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • About Us
CALL US AT (480) 748-1127

Up Close Publications

ad Acoya
  • Home
  • Read Articles
    • Community
    • Education
    • Events
    • Finance
    • Food + Dining
    • Health + Beauty
    • Holidays
    • Home Improvement
    • Las Sendas Golf Club: A Closer Look
    • Local Business
    • Over 50
    • Real Estate
    • Sports
  • Events
  • Service Directory
  • Advertisers
  • Testimonials
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
Health + Beauty

It Is Important to Recognize and Understand Atrial Fibrillation

by Dr. Afroze Ahmad May 29, 2013January 8, 2014
written by Dr. Afroze Ahmad May 29, 2013January 8, 2014

Because a wide range of events or circumstances can trigger atrial fibrillation, it is important to pay attention to the warning signs and seek appropriate treatment.

What follows are a few examples of what may induce atrial fibrillation.

“I had lost my job. I was depressed. Binge drinking gave way to daily heavy alcohol intake. It came so suddenly. I felt dizzy. Then, it seemed I was hit by a high voltage shock in the pit of my stomach. The next thing I remember, I am in the emergency room. The cardiologist told me the high voltage shock was atrial fibrillation, and alcohol was the culprit.”

“I have an overactive thyroid gland but no heart problems. Then, one day I noticed a rapid thumping in my chest. My doctor said the rapid thumping was atrial fibrillation, and my thyroid was driving my heart rate so high and fast.”

“Every now and then, when I am in a rush for whatever reason, I will feel a rapid beat in my chest. My cardiologist ordered a monitor to evaluate my heart rhythm. The monitor showed the rapid beat sensation was atrial fibrillation. ”

“All through my adult life I would relax with a couple of cups of good strong brewed coffee. Not anymore. Now, it seems, with even the first cup of coffee, a birdie settles in my chest and flutters so hard, as if there was no tomorrow. My cardiologist told me the birdie in my chest was atrial fibrillation.”

Definition of atrial fibrillation Simply put, it is an irregular heartbeat.

What causes atrial fibrillation

So, what is atrial fibrillation? The easiest way to understand many of the heart disorders, is to picture the heart as a two-story house. We know a house has both a plumbing system and an electrical system. Well, atrial fibrillation is a disorder of the electrical system of the heart.

Nature wants the upper and lower story of the heart to beat in synchrony. In atrial fibrillation, the electrical system of the upper story of the house develops a mind of its own, and no longer works in synchrony with the electrical system of the lower story. The result is electric signals, which are not only fast or slow but also irregular. These irregular and chaotic electric signals are known as atrial fibrillation.

Symptoms

The perception of atrial fibrillation by an individual is both variable and diverse. One may feel dizzy or lightheaded. At times, it is a sudden jolt or shock-like sensation. However, generally, there are palpitations or the heart is fluttering. The fast heartbeat also may cause fatigue and shortness of breath. Chest pain also may occur.  Sometimes, the individual simply notices ankle swelling and unexplained weight gain. In some people, the first presentation is a stroke.

I have atrial fibrillation. Does it make me unique?

Actually, it does not. Surprisingly, atrial fibrillation is quite common. Approximately five out of every 100 people after the age of 55 years will have atrial fibrillation. After the age of 80 years, the number rises to 15 to 20 out of every 100 people.

Why do I have atrial fibrillation?

There are multiple reasons for atrial fibrillation. Generally, it is precipitated by an underlying heart disease. The underlying disease could be high blood pressure, a leaking heart valve, a previous heart attack or blockages in the heart.

However, other non-heart problems also may lead to atrial fibrillation, including lung disease and thyroid disease. Snoring and sleep apnea also may be associated with atrial fibrillation. Sometimes, atrial fibrillation simply runs in families. Similarly, use of any stimulant may increase the risks of atrial fibrillation, as well. Caffeinated products and alcohol, both binge and long-term heavy use, also are closely tied to episodes of atrial fibrillation.

This is the first in a four-part series of articles about atrial fibrillation written by Dr. Ahmad. The remaining articles will address diagnosis and complications, including stroke risk and treatment options, as well as challenges with blood thinners, such as Warfarin/Coumadin.

Dr. Afroze Ahmad is a multiple board certified cardiologist practicing at Las Sendas Cardiology, PC, located at 3514 N. Power Road. For information, or to make an appointment, call (480) 361-9946.

0 comment
0
FacebookTwitterPinterest
previous post
Cosmos Salon and Day Spa Offers Unique Options for Father’s Day Gifts
next post
Kumon Math and Reading Helps Students Achieve

Related Articles

Patient Responsibility or Healthcare System Irresponsibility?

March 2, 2020

Shovel hits the ground for surgery center

December 1, 2019

Southwest Cardiovascular Associates offer Specialized Care

September 29, 2019

Expanding Cardiovascular Practice Provides Holistic Approach to Health

April 29, 2019

Heart disease can affect women

December 1, 2016

What Happens In The Gall Bladder Does Not...

October 27, 2016

High Standard of Excellence Ensures Quality, Compassionate Patient...

September 1, 2016

Screening for Cardiovascular Health is Simple

June 30, 2016

Cardiologist takes the time to really listen to...

December 1, 2015

Exercise Improves Quality of Life Following Heart Failure

October 30, 2015

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Read Print Issue Now

find us on social media

Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest

Trending Articles

  • Mesa Citizen of the Year Association Honors Students for Exceptional Service and Lifelong Impact

  • Curiosity, Geometry, and Arts and The Shaping of The Future

  • So, What Kind of Music Do You Like?

  • Xoxo Charcuterie Mesa is aone stop solution for great events

  • Getting Off theLong, Uphill Bicycle Ride

Read PDF Editions





GET IN TOUCH

Kim Phillips
Publisher
(480) 748-1127
publisher@phillipswest.com

 


 
Monica Adair
Advertising Representative
(480) 772-1949
monica@goupclose.com

Email Us



    Sign up for our newsletter



      • Facebook
      • Twitter
      • Instagram
      • Pinterest
      • Advertise
      • Contact Us
      • About Us

      Ⓒ 2020 Phillips West Publishing | Website by Rangefinder Studios