Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular heartbeat or pulse that can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure if not managed properly.

What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation (AF) happens when electrical signals in your heart become erratic, causing an irregular and sometimes faster-than-normal heartbeat. AF prevents the atria, the heart's two smaller chambers, from pumping blood properly, which may lead to blood clots forming in the heart.

There are three types of AF:

Paroxysmal AF: occurs in short episodes lasting minutes, hours, or days but usually no longer than a week.
Persistent AF: episodes last longer than a week.
Long-standing persistent or permanent AF: ongoing for more than a year.

How can you reduce your risk?

Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential. They can guide you on lifestyle changes to lower your risk, such as:

Quitting smoking
Staying active by sitting less and moving more
Reducing alcohol and caffeine intake
Choosing fresh, unprocessed foods
Managing stress levels
Getting enough sleep

What are the symptoms of AF?

Occasionally people with AF feel their heart beating irregularly or too quickly. Others don’t notice any symptoms at all. This is known as asymptomatic AF.

Who can have atrial fibrillation?

Anyone can have AF, but it’s more common in older people. In Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika communities experience AF at higher rates and at younger ages than other people.

Factors that increase the risk of AF include:

High blood pressure
Other heart conditions
Excessive alcohol consumption
Temporary illnesses like pneumonia or thyroid problems can sometimes trigger AF

Why does AF increase stroke risk?

People with AF are more likely to have a stroke. This is because the atria may not pump blood effectively, allowing it to pool and form clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?

If you’re worried about AF, talk to your doctor. AF is typically diagnosed using:

Electrocardiogram (ECG): A test that records your heart’s electrical activity.
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of your heart.

Thanks to modern technology, mobile apps like FibriCheck can also help detect AF. Additionally, if you are at higher risk, Stroke Aotearoa offers free heart rhythm checks in communities throughout Aotearoa.

How is atrial fibrillation treated?

If you have been diagnosed with AF, a treatment plan will be made by your medical professional, taking into account your current health and risk factors. This treatment may include:

Medication
- Anticoagulants: Prevent blood clots and lower the risk of stroke.
- Anti-arrhythmic medication: Helps regulate your heartbeat.
Medical and surgical procedures
- Cardioversion: A procedure that restores the heart to its normal rhythm.
- Ablation: A technique that targets and fixes the part of the heart causing the irregular rhythm.

A manageable issue

Atrial fibrillation can be managed with the right support, lifestyle changes, and treatment. Regular check-ups and early intervention can make a big difference in reducing your risk and living a healthy, active life.