September is National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month
WAUSAU, WI (OnFocus) – Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), a common type of irregular heart rhythm, poses a significant risk of stroke and heart failure, particularly among individuals under 65. Recent research highlights an alarming trend: the rising prevalence of AFib in younger patients.
A study published in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology analyzed data from over 67,000 patients seeking care for AFib, revealing that more than 25 percent were under 65—far exceeding the previously estimated 2 percent for this age group.
“Atrial fibrillation is a condition where the top two chambers of the heart quiver when they’re not functioning properly, making it harder for the rest of the heart to work,” explained John Johnkoski, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Aspirus Heart & Lung Surgery. “Factors like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea are driving the rise in AFib among younger people.”
Symptoms of AFib can include dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, or palpitations in the chest. Some individuals may not notice any symptoms at all, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and management.
“We’re now seeing signs of heart disease in 40-year-olds we previously observed in people in their 50s, highlighting an accelerated aging process,” says Dr. Johnkoski, emphasizing the urgency of early intervention. “It’s a lot easier to manage and treat AFib when we address it sooner, which can help prevent downstream complications such as stroke, heart attack, and heart failure.”
There are several ways to treat atrial fibrillation, depending on the individual’s specific situation. Common options include medications, cardioversion, catheter ablation, or minimally invasive surgery such as the Maze procedure. Additionally, making changes to diet, exercise, and managing stress can help improve symptoms.
No matter what your age, it’s important for individuals with AFib to work closely with their doctor to find the best approach for their situation.
The Atrial Fibrillation Clinic at Aspirus Heart Care offers comprehensive care for patients with atrial arrhythmias. The clinic allows patients to see both an electrophysiologist (EP) and cardiothoracic surgeon in the same setting to learn about treatment options. For information regarding referrals, scheduling, or to answer general questions, please call 866.783.6266.
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Author: News Desk
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