Atrial Fibrillation Prognosis

Your atrial fibrillation prognosis can depend on several factors, such as the symptoms you are experiencing, whether or not you are undergoing treatment, and how well you are responding to that treatment. By following the advice of people like your doctor and pharmacist, and receiving the proper treatment, your atrial fibrillation prognosis could possibly improve.

 

Atrial Fibrillation Prognosis: An Overview

The prognosis, or expectation, for people with atrial fibrillation depends on many factors, such as:
 
  • Overall health and whether other heart problems are present
  • Age
  • Type of atrial fibrillation
  • Symptoms
  • Response to treatment.
     
Symptoms of atrial fibrillation can vary greatly and affect each person differently. Some people have no idea that they are in atrial fibrillation, while others can quickly tell when their heart rhythm becomes irregular. They may experience shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and anxiety. In addition, the unpredictable nature of this condition can make it very disruptive for some people. Atrial fibrillation can seriously affect their lives and make it hard to carry out normal daily activities.
 

Factors Influencing an Atrial Fibrillation Prognosis

Although atrial fibrillation by itself increases the risk of having a stroke -- and of premature death -- the risk is even higher if there are other untreated health problems, like high blood pressure (hypertension) or coronary artery disease.
 
By following your healthcare professional's advice and receiving the proper atrial fibrillation treatment, you may be able to significantly reduce your symptoms and improve the quality of your life. Treatment may include a combination of the following:
 
  • Medications to control your heart rhythm, control your heart rate, and help prevent the formation of unwanted blood clots
     
  • Treatment of other diseases that are contributing to your abnormal heart rhythm
     
  • Modifications to your diet and lifestyle, such as eliminating things that can cause or worsen health problems.
     
Make sure that you ask your doctor, pharmacist, and other healthcare providers any questions you have about your health and treatments. By taking an active role in maintaining your health, you may relieve your symptoms of atrial fibrillation and help keep them from interfering with your daily activities.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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