The CDC estimates that more than 5 million Americans have atrial fibrillation. By the end of 2030, the CDC expects the population of people with the condition will rise to more than 12 million. Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is a common type of heart arrhythmia. A heart arrhythmia is a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation Frisco is characterized by the upper chambers of your heart pumping or beating in a manner that is out of sync with the heart’s lower chambers. Signs you may have are shortness or weakness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, chest pain, and a fast, throbbing heartbeat, whether your atrial fibrillation is long-lasting or comes and disappears.
The irregular heart rhythm may lead to blood collection in your heart’s upper chambers. As a result, that encourages blood clotting that can travel through the blood vessels connected to your brain and trigger a stroke. You may also be at higher risk of stroke if you have atrial fibrillation and other chronic health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Therefore, you should focus on preventing and seeking immediate treatment for atrial fibrillation. Consequently, below are potential factors that may trigger your atrial fibrillation.
- Fatigue
If you are tired, especially during and after an intense physical activity like running, that may trigger irregular heartbeats. Also, subjecting your body to extreme levels of physical activity can worsen the symptoms of atrial fibrillation and negatively impact your overall health and well-being.
If you have atrial fibrillation or are at higher risk of the condition, consult your specialist on the safe approach to physical activities and exercises.
- Dehydration
When dehydrated, your body does not have adequate water and other fluids to support normal functions such as metabolism. Dehydration may result from excessive and regular consumption of alcohol and failing to drink sufficient water during hotter months, particularly if you perform rigorous exercises. You may also suffer from dehydration if you have severe health conditions that affect your bladder and lungs.
Dehydration may induce atrial fibrillation.
- High caffeine intake
Consuming beverages with high levels of caffeine frequently may trigger atrial fibrillation symptoms. If you notice atrial fibrillation symptoms after caffeine intake, minimize or avoid consuming energy drinks, coffee, and tea.
- Smoking
Frequent smoking of cigarettes or the use of tobacco products introduces thousands of toxic chemicals, including nicotine, into your bloodstream. Nicotine is a substance that can stimulate your heart, and several studies link smoking with stroke and heart attack.
- Stress and anxiety
High stress and anxiety levels, particularly in the workplace, can boost the production of stress hormones like glucagon, adrenaline, norepinephrine, and cortisol. As a result, that may trigger atrial fibrillation episodes.
Ensure you familiarize yourself with tips that can help you better manage stress. For instance, you can take some stress-relieving medications and perform exercises regularly.
- Medications
Some medications for treating cardiovascular diseases, such as adenosine and dobutamine, can induce atrial fibrillation. There are also reports that some anti-inflammatory drugs and medicines for preventing nausea and vomiting may trigger irregular heartbeat.
Contact Prime Heart and Vascular today to schedule an appointment with an atrial fibrillation specialist.
