What Is Atrial Fibrillation in Elderly?
Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder in seniors, affecting millions of older adults. Understanding AFib helps patients manage this condition and reduce serious complications like stroke.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular, often rapid heart rhythm originating in the heart’s upper chambers. Instead of beating normally, the atria quiver chaotically, causing irregular heartbeats.
AFib becomes increasingly common with age. About 10 percent of people over 80 have atrial fibrillation. High blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and sleep apnea increase risk.
AFib may be paroxysmal, coming and going, or persistent and continuous. Some people feel every episode while others have AFib without knowing it. Both symptomatic and asymptomatic AFib carry risks.
Symptoms of AFib
Palpitations, feeling your heart racing, fluttering, or pounding, are common symptoms. The irregular rhythm feels noticeably different from normal heartbeat.
Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance occur because the heart pumps less efficiently during AFib. Energy for normal activities may decrease.
Shortness of breath, dizziness, and lightheadedness can accompany AFib episodes. Some people feel chest discomfort or pressure.
Some people have no symptoms. Silent AFib is discovered incidentally during medical evaluations. Lack of symptoms does not mean lack of risk.
Why AFib Is Serious
Stroke risk increases five-fold with AFib. Blood can pool in the quivering atria and form clots. These clots can travel to the brain, causing stroke. AFib-related strokes tend to be severe.
Heart failure can develop or worsen with AFib. The rapid, irregular rhythm strains the heart. Over time, heart function may decline.
Cognitive decline may be accelerated by AFib. Both strokes and reduced blood flow may affect brain function over time.
Treatment Approaches
Blood thinners prevent stroke by reducing clot formation. Warfarin has been used for decades. Newer anticoagulants like apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran offer alternatives. Most AFib patients need anticoagulation.
Rate control medications slow the heart rate during AFib. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers are commonly used. The goal is a comfortable heart rate, typically under 110 beats per minute.
Rhythm control attempts to restore and maintain normal rhythm. Medications, cardioversion, or ablation procedures may be used. Rhythm control is not necessarily better than rate control for all patients.
Lifestyle modifications help manage AFib. Treating sleep apnea, managing blood pressure, limiting alcohol, and maintaining healthy weight all improve AFib control.
Living with AFib
Take anticoagulants exactly as prescribed. Missing doses increases stroke risk. Never stop blood thinners without medical guidance.
Monitor for symptoms and seek care if symptoms change significantly. New or worsening symptoms warrant evaluation.
Getting AFib Care
All Seniors Foundation supports patients with atrial fibrillation. Proper management reduces stroke risk and maintains quality of life. Contact us for AFib care and monitoring.
