Summary about Disease
Non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm originating in the atria (upper chambers of the heart). Unlike valvular atrial fibrillation, NVAF is not caused by problems with the heart valves. It increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. The term "non-valvular" is important because treatment strategies may differ depending on whether valve disease is present.
Symptoms
Symptoms of NVAF can vary significantly from person to person. Some individuals experience no symptoms at all, while others have noticeable and debilitating symptoms. Common symptoms include:
Palpitations (a fluttering or racing heart feeling)
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Weakness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Chest pain or pressure (less common, but possible)
Exercise intolerance
Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of NVAF. These include:
High blood pressure
Coronary artery disease
Heart failure
Chronic lung disease (e.g., COPD)
Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism)
Sleep apnea
Excessive alcohol consumption
Obesity
Diabetes
Age (risk increases with age)
Stress
Certain medications
Sometimes, the cause is unknown (idiopathic atrial fibrillation)
Medicine Used
Medications used to manage NVAF aim to control the heart rate, prevent blood clots, and potentially restore a normal heart rhythm. Common medications include:
Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Prevent blood clots and reduce stroke risk (e.g., Warfarin, Apixaban, Rivaroxaban, Dabigatran).
Rate-Control Medications: Slow down the heart rate (e.g., Beta-blockers, Calcium channel blockers, Digoxin).
Rhythm-Control Medications: Attempt to restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm (e.g., Amiodarone, Flecainide, Propafenone).
Antiarrhythmic Medications: Assist in restoring normal heart rhythms and maintaining them.
Is Communicable
No, NVAF is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Precautions for individuals with NVAF primarily focus on managing the condition and reducing the risk of complications. These include:
Adherence to Medication: Taking prescribed medications exactly as directed is crucial.
Regular Medical Follow-Up: Attending regular appointments with a cardiologist or healthcare provider for monitoring and adjustments to treatment.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing weight, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, and quitting smoking.
Blood Pressure Control: Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range.
Monitoring for Symptoms: Being aware of symptoms and reporting any changes to a healthcare provider.
Fall Prevention: Taking precautions to prevent falls, especially if taking blood thinners.
Inform Healthcare Providers: Informing all healthcare providers (including dentists) about NVAF and anticoagulant use.
How long does an outbreak last?
NVAF is not an outbreak. Atrial fibrillation can be paroxysmal (episodes that come and go), persistent (lasting longer than 7 days), or permanent (continuous). There is no "outbreak" duration.
How is it diagnosed?
NVAF is typically diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which records the electrical activity of the heart. Other diagnostic tests may include:
Holter Monitor: A portable ECG that records heart activity over 24-48 hours or longer.
Event Monitor: A device that records heart activity when the patient experiences symptoms.
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess its structure and function.
Blood Tests: To check thyroid function, electrolytes, and other factors.
Chest X-ray: To evaluate the lungs and heart.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of NVAF symptoms can vary.
Paroxysmal AFib: Symptoms occur suddenly and may last for a few minutes, hours, or days before resolving on their own.
Persistent AFib: Symptoms are continuous and last longer than 7 days, often requiring medical intervention to restore normal rhythm.
Long-Standing Persistent AFib: Continuous AFib for longer than 12 months.
Permanent AFib: AFib is present continuously, and no further attempts are made to restore normal rhythm. The onset of noticeable symptoms can be gradual or sudden, and the frequency and severity of symptoms can change over time.
Important Considerations
Stroke Risk: NVAF significantly increases the risk of stroke. Anticoagulation is crucial for many patients.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment plans should be tailored to each patient's specific needs and risk factors.
Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing NVAF.
Catheter Ablation: A procedure to destroy the tissue causing the abnormal heart rhythm, is an option for some patients who do not respond well to medications.
Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC): A procedure to close off the left atrial appendage (where clots often form in AFib) as an alternative to long-term anticoagulation.
Comorbidities: Managing underlying health conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes) is important.
Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is essential.