According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, atrial fibrillation is defined as “the most common type of arrhythmia.” An arrhythmia is a problem with the heartbeat. It is generally a problem associated with heart rate or the rhythm of the heartbeat. When someone is suffering from an arrhythmia, the heart may begin to beat to quickly or to slowly. It may also be associated with an irregular heartbeat rhythm. For those who rely on senior care, the more that you understand about atrial fibrillation, the more you may be able to help them in the event that they have a problem.

During an atrial fibrillation, blood will pool in the atria, this is the major artery leaving the heart. When blood pools in the atria, it isn’t being moved to the heart’s two lower chambers. These are called ventricles. When that happens, the upper and lower chambers are not working in unison as their meant to.

Increased risks with atrial fibrillation.

A number of patients who have atrial fibrillation may not even notice symptoms when they are having an episode. That doesn’t mean they are completely safe. Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of stroke. It can also be associated with chest pain and potential heart failure, especially if their heart rate elevates too fast.

Someone can have an atrial fibrillation problem for many years. They may have few symptoms or episodes every so often, but it can also become a more significant ongoing problem that needs to be dealt with.

People who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation can live completely normal and active lives. The treatment is designed to help restore normal heart rhythms. Some of those treatments can include various medications, medical procedures, and even a change in diet and other lifestyle practices.

If you are providing senior care services for someone who has been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, and their treatment is some type of lifestyle change, find out what those changes are and help them stick to their regimen. Changing a lifestyle can be challenging for a number of reasons. The older that a person is, the more used to certain routines they become.

As a senior care provider, it is important for you to actively participate in helping them achieve those lifestyle changes. You can do this through encouragement, understanding, and being diligent in the work that you provide. September is Atrial Fibrillation Month, and it’s a good idea to understand this potential serious health condition.