What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Chronic Atrial Fibrillation
• Continuous Atrial Fibrillation
• Persistent AF

What is Persistent Atrial Fibrillation? (Definition/Background Information)

• Persistent Atrial Fibrillation is a type of irregular heart rhythm characterized by continuous episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF) that last for more than seven days. Unlike paroxysmal AF, which resolves on its own, Persistent AF requires medical intervention or treatment to restore normal heart rhythm
• Persistent Atrial Fibrillation is generally noted in older adults and may present signs and symptoms similar to other forms of AF. These may include palpitations, rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue
• A diagnosis of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation is made through an electrocardiogram (ECG) to confirm the presence of atrial fibrillation during an episode. Additional tests may be conducted to evaluate the underlying causes and assess the overall health of the heart
• The treatment of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation focuses on controlling the heart's rhythm and rate. This may involve medications known as antiarrhythmics to restore and maintain a regular heart rhythm. In some cases, cardioversion, a procedure that uses electrical shocks, may be performed to reset the heart's rhythm. Long-term management often includes anticoagulants to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke
• The prognosis for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation can vary, depending on factors like the underlying causes and the effectiveness of treatment. When well-managed, many individuals with persistent AF can lead normal lives and reduce the risk of complications, such as stroke

Who gets Persistent Atrial Fibrillation? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Persistent Atrial Fibrillation can affect individuals of various age groups, but it is more common with advancing age
• Both men and women are susceptible to this heart condition
• This condition may be observed worldwide, and no particular racial or ethnic preference is noted

What are the Risk Factors for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation include:

• Advancing age
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Sleep apnea
• History of heart surgery or other heart-related procedures

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation? (Etiology)

Persistent Atrial Fibrillation is a type of cardiac arrhythmia characterized by a sustained and ongoing irregular heartbeat originating from the heart's upper chambers (atria). In this condition, the heart's electrical signals are disrupted, leading to rapid and chaotic atrial contractions.

• The precise cause of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation can be multifactorial, often arising from a combination of underlying heart conditions, lifestyle factors, and genetic predisposition
• Heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and cardiomyopathy, can contribute to the development of this arrhythmia

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation?

The signs and symptoms of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation may include:

• Palpitations
• Rapid and irregular heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Chest discomfort
• Fainting, in some cases

How is Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation may involve the following tests and exams:

• Detailed medical history and physical examination
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to detect and analyze heart rhythm abnormalities during an episode or through continuous monitoring
• Holter monitoring (continuous ECG recording)
• Echocardiogram to evaluate the structure and function of the heart
• Blood tests to assess thyroid function, electrolyte levels, and other factors related to heart health
• Tests to evaluate the heart's electrical activity and identify potential underlying causes

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation?

The complications of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation can include the following:

• Increased risk of stroke due to blood clots forming in the atria
• Heart failure
• Other heart-related issues

An irregular heartbeat can also lead to reduced cardiac output and exacerbation of pre-existing heart conditions.

How is Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Treated?

The treatment goals for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation focus on controlling heart rate, restoring normal heart rhythm (rhythm control), preventing blood clots, and managing underlying contributing factors. The treatment options may include:

• Medication
• Electrical cardioversion (restoring normal rhythm using electrical shocks)
• Catheter ablation
• Surgical procedures, if necessary

How can Persistent Atrial Fibrillation be Prevented?

The preventive measures for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation involve managing risk factors through a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, weight management, avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine, controlling blood pressure, and managing diabetes.

What is the Prognosis of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• With appropriate management, many individuals with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation can lead active lives
• However, the prognosis depends on the severity of underlying heart conditions, the effectiveness of treatment, and the individual's commitment to lifestyle modifications

It is essential to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan and monitor the condition regularly.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation:

• Atrial fibrillation is the most common and potentially serious heart rhythm disorder, usually affecting older adults. The characteristic symptoms associated with this condition are rapid and irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath

The following resource link may help in better understanding Atrial Fibrillation:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/