Atrial Fibrillation Symptoms Including at Night and Treatment

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm abnormality we see in cardiology.
The tendency to develop this condition increases with age (particular after 60 years old) as the heart chambers stretch or become stiffened as we get older. It occurs as a result of a disarray in the electrical activity arising from the top chambers of the heart, the end effect being a rapid and irregular heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation can be classified as paroxysmal (intermittent), persistent or permanent.

Atrial Fibrillation symptoms at night  can awaken the patient and may leave them feeling anxious and sweaty.

The dangers of AF:

• Increased risk of stroke. Sufferers are 5-7 time more likely to have a stroke compared with the general population.
• AF can decrease the pumping action of the heart if it remains uncontrolled over a long period of time. The rapid uncontrolled rate weakens the heart leading to heart failure and ultimately increasing the risk of death.

Atrial fibrillation is associated with numerous conditions particularly those affecting the heart and the lungs. It can also be associated with metabolic diseases (including thyroid disease), viral infections, alcohol, excess caffeine and certain drugs.

Symptoms associated with AF include:

• Heart palpitations
• Lack of energy
• Dizziness
• Chest discomfort
• Breathlessness