The Types of A-Fib

Written By: Allison Zahorcak

As we know by now, Atrial fibrillation, or a-fib, is a disease that can lead to heart failure. The abnormality of a heartbeat can lead to heart failure, but did you know that irregular heat beats have 4 classifications?  The first step in any diagnosis is classifying a patient's irregular heartbeat.  Not only does this help doctors work with the patient on medication to manage the issue, but it also helps doctors understand how the diagnosis may lead to different risk factors.

Remember, atrial fibrillation treatment DC is extremely important for patients to stay actively managed.   Those with an irregular heartbeat are at a higher risk for heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions that can lead to heart failure.

Let's take a look at the 4 types of atrial fibrillation classes that you should seek a-fib treatment DC for: Paroxysmal, Persistent, Permanent, and Lone.

The 4 Types of A-Fib that Require Treatment

1. Paroxysmal - Irregular heartbeats that last less than 7 days and has recurred at least twice throughout a 24 hour time period.
2. Persistent - Irregular heartbeat lasts longer than 7 days but can be alleviated with proper treatment.
3. Permanent - Irregular heartbeats that last longer than one year and do not seem to respond to treatment (or treatment hasn't been attempted yet).
4. Lone - An irregular heartbeat that appears without sign of other disease and is paroxysmal or persistent in nature.

Once the doctor has determined where the irregular heartbeat rests on this spectrum, he or she will begin working on a treatment plan with the patient.  This includes everything from daily medications to surgery if the patient does not seem to respond to any medications.  If the situation escalates to surgery, patients are often looking to have open heart surgery.

If you or a loved one is worried that you may need a-fib treatment Washington DC, try to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Like most medical disorders, the quicker these issues are addressed- the easier they are to treat.  More importantly,  you can rest easy knowing your heart is in good condition and your life is not in any danger.