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Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Triggers of Atrial Fibrillation

Risk Factors

Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) is considered a part of aging. In fact, 1 in 4 over the age of 40 will develop Afib in their lifetime. Risk factors include:

  • Family history
  • Heart problems or heart surgery
  • High blood pressure
  • Obesity
  • Sleep apnea
  • Caffeine, nicotine or illegal drug use
  • Drinking too much alcohol
  • Changes in the level of body minerals
  • Other long-term health conditions
Early signs of Afib can be mild, with symptoms including:

Afib Signs Palpitations

Palpitations

Afib Signs Palpitations

Fluttering feeling in the chest

Afib Signs Palpitations

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

 

Symptoms of Afib

Symptoms of persistent and long-standing persistent Afib, can be different and more severe.

Illustration-symptoms-shortness-breath

Shortness of Breath

Illustration-symptoms-weakness

Weakness

Illustration-symptoms-afib-signs-fatigue

Fatigue

Illustration-symptoms-pain-chest

Pain in the Chest

Illustration-symptoms-pressure-chest

Pressure in the Chest

Illustration-symptoms-lowered-blood-pressure

Lowered Blood Pressure

Illustration Dizziness or Fainting

Dizziness or Fainting

Illustration-symptoms-afib-signs-lightheaded

Feeling Lightheaded

 

If untreated, Afib progresses—from less severe to more advanced. 

That’s why it’s important to mention any of these symptoms to your healthcare provider. During your next office visit, talk to your provider about your symptoms.

 

Triggers: Where Does Afib Start?

Research shows that there are three areas of the heart where Afib normally starts. The pulmonary veins are often the first trigger. As Afib worsens, it typically impacts other key areas of the heart. Those areas are the Posterior Wall (back wall) and the Left Atrial Appendage (LAA).

 

Find out why treating Afib is critical:

Importance of Treatment

 

Hybrid AF Therapy Safety Information

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