Atrial Fibrillation and Its Implications on Heart Sounds Explained
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart condition characterised by an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm, which is different from the regular beat of a healthy heart [1]. This type of arrhythmia affects the upper chambers (atria) of the heart.
The heart consists of four chambers: two upper chambers (atria) and two lower chambers (ventricles). In a healthy heart, blood flows smoothly from the atria to the ventricles, and then out to the rest of the body. However, in AFib, the atria contract irregularly, leading to an inconsistent flow of blood into the ventricles [2].
Doctors listen for heart sounds using a stethoscope to diagnose heart conditions. In a normal heart, the sounds S1 and S2 are audible, representing the closing of the tricuspid valve and mitral valve (S1) and the closing of the pulmonary valve and aortic valve (S2) during the heart's pumping cycle. In AFib, the heart rhythm becomes irregularly irregular, with a variable intensity of S1, and notably, the absence of S4 [4].
The S3 sound may be heard in certain conditions that involve higher left atrial volume and lower ventricular filling pressure, such as congestive heart failure [3]. On the other hand, the S4 sound occurs during diastole and is the hallmark of conditions affecting ventricular function. However, in AFib, the lack of coordinated atrial contraction eliminates the S4 sound [4].
It is essential to note that AFib does not cause specific heart sounds but rather an irregular rhythm. While AFib may coexist with valvular disease that may produce murmurs, it primarily alters the rhythm and timing of heart sounds rather than producing new abnormal murmurs [1].
If you experience symptoms such as a feeling of the heart pounding or fluttering, extreme tiredness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and chest pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A person with mild symptoms should make an appointment with a doctor, while someone with serious symptoms should go to an emergency room [6]. An EKG is the test for diagnosing an irregular heart rhythm, and additional tests may include blood tests, imaging tests, monitors, and electrophysiology study [7].
In conclusion, understanding the irregular heart rhythm associated with AFib is crucial for early detection and treatment. If you suspect you may have AFib, consult your doctor immediately.
References:
[1] American Heart Association. (n.d.). Atrial Fibrillation. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation
[2] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). Atrial fibrillation. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20373404
[3] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.). What Is Atrial Fibrillation? Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation
[4] UpToDate. (2021). Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/clinical-manifestations-and-diagnosis-of-atrial-fibrillation
[5] American College of Cardiology. (2021). Atrial Fibrillation. Retrieved from https://www.acc.org/conditions-and-treatments/heart-failure/types-of-heart-failure/atrial-fibrillation
[6] National Health Service. (2021). Atrial fibrillation: Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms/
[7] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Atrial Fibrillation. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15255-atrial-fibrillation
- AFib is a form of chronic disease that falls under the category of cardiovascular health, affecting the science of medical conditions related to the heart.
- The atrial chamber of the heart is significantly impacted in the presence of AFib, leading to an inconsistent flow of blood into the ventricles, which can further complicate other cardiovascular-related health issues.
- Proper health-and-wellness, including fitness-and-exercise, mental health, respiratory conditions, and cancer prevention, may be crucial in the management and prevention of AFib, as it is associated with a higher risk of other health complications.
- The science of detecting AFib involves listening for heart sounds with a stethoscope, but it primarily presents as an irregular heart rhythm rather than specific cardiovascular abnormalities like S4 in more traditional heart conditions.
- Seeking medical attention is essential if you experience symptoms such as heart pounding, fluttering, extreme tiredness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and chest pain that could potentially indicate AFib, as an EKG and other tests can help diagnose this medical condition.
- Early recognition and treatment of AFib are vital to ensure an appropriate management plan that prioritizes cardiovascular-health and overall well-being, as it may coexist with various cardiovascular abnormalities that require prompt medical intervention.
