Can Atrial Fibrillation Go Away?

Posted on October 4, 2022

Allow us to answer the question at hand right from the top.A couple walking on the beach together.

Can atrial fibrillation go away?

Yes, but it is quite rare for atrial fibrillation to go away on its own. That said, “spontaneous remission” is possible, in which AFib no longer occurs.

What exactly is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation, often referred to simply as AFib, is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, when the heart beats irregularly. That can mean an overly rapid, slow, or erratic heartbeat.

What causes AFib?

Usually, AFib is caused by damage to the heart’s electrical system due to other conditions such as high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It is also a common complication following heart surgery. In some instances, the cause is unknown; however, there are certain risk factors that are associated with AFib.

Risk factors for AFib include:

  • Advanced age
  • High blood pressure
  • Obesity
  • European ancestry
  • Diabetes
  • Heart failure
  • Ischemic heart disease
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Moderate to heavy alcohol use
  • Smoking
  • Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart

There is more than one type of AFib, distinguished by duration. An accurate diagnosis is integral to determining the best treatment options.

The different types of atrial fibrillation are:

  • Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: This type of AFib manifests over the course of seven days or less, on and off, and returns to a normal rhythm without treatment. Those who experience this type of AFib may have episodes only a few times a year or their symptoms may occur every day. These symptoms are unpredictable.
  • Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: The most common type of abnormal heartbeat. It lasts for longer than seven days and it does not return to normal on its own without the help of treatment.
  • Long-Standing Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: This form of AFib lasts for more than a year.
  • Permanent Atrial Fibrillation: When AFib continues and does not improve with treatment.

Again, the different types of AFib are primarily differentiated by the duration. They cause the same symptoms.

Typical symptoms associated with AFib include:

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Heart palpitations
  • Heart fluttering
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Anxiety
  • Faintness

Keep in mind, many people who live with AFib may not feel any symptoms; however, symptom-free does not mean risk-free.

Why?

People who suffer from AFib are five times more likely to have a stroke.

Irregular heartbeat is a serious condition that should be monitored by your health care provider. Even when AFib goes away on its own, it is necessary to continue to monitor your heart health to mitigate the risk of more serious conditions, like a stroke. Turn to the Medical Group of New Jersey to treat and monitor atrial fibrillation in New Jersey. We are dedicated to providing you with the best advice and care possible.