Pericarditis

Atrial fibrillation: Is exercise a risk factor?

Fact Checked

It is important to note that the amount of exercise or physical activity an individual engages in has a vital role in determining whether or not he/she will end up with atrial fibrillation. Just remember that it can occur in both ways. A sedentary lifestyle drastically increases the risk for developing atrial fibrillation but it also turns out that engaging in strenuous exercise also poses as a risk.

What are the indications?

In most cases, the symptoms are not evident. Palpitations are evident in some cases and can be felt as fast, irregular heart rate. The individual is readily fatigued, short of breath and lightheaded.

As for those who have CAD, they can suffer from increased episodes of angina with atrial fibrillation. When it comes to heart failure, the individual might end up with severe deterioration of the condition.

Sedentary lifestyle and atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation
Palpitations are evident in some cases and can be felt as fast, irregular heart rate. The individual is readily fatigued, short of breath and lightheaded.

Several studies have revealed a strong link between being sedentary and the fibrillation. Additionally, lifestyle modifications can minimize the risk for the condition. In one study, those who engaged in an exercise program that efficiently improves cardiopulmonary fitness was linked with a reduction or even elimination of atrial fibrillation.

Strenuous exercise

In studies conducted, it was discovered that individuals who chronically engage in extensive episodes of endurance exercises face a higher risk for developing atrial fibrillation.

What are the likely indications?

It is important to note that not all individuals who are overweight and have a sedentary lifestyle and habitually engage in excessive endurance training will eventually develop atrial fibrillation. On the other hand, there are some individuals who seem naturally predisposed to develop the condition possibly due to hereditary factors and among these individuals, either extensive exercise can be an issue.

Among average individuals who have atrial fibrillation, the odds are higher than those included in the sedentary group and generally likely to follow the appropriate treatment.

The individual should consult a doctor regarding measures to cut down weight and starting a suitable exercise routine, not just improving general health but also minimize or eliminate atrial fibrillation.

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