Can exercise worsen atrial fibrillation in a 46-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 46 years old and was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation a few months ago after experiencing some episodes of rapid heartbeat. Despite being under treatment, I am always anxious about the possibility of doing something that could cause another episode of atrial fibrillation.

Searching the internet, I have found so many different recommendations, and now I am asking myself: Can regular exercise improve atrial fibrillation without making it worse?

I used to jog and cycle before being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, but now I do not want to engage in such activities anymore since I am afraid of putting pressure on my heart. However, my cardiologist recommended that I stay active, but I get anxious whenever I experience an increased heart rate.

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello

Welcome to icliniq.com

I understand your concern.

Exercise can be quite helpful for those who suffer from AFib (atrial fibrillation). In most instances, it improves their general cardiovascular health, enhances their fitness level, and helps them manage their weight and blood pressure. Exercise can also help lower the frequency of AFib episodes in certain patients.

You can become quite worried whenever you notice that your heart rate becomes higher while exercising. But an increased heart rate while doing some exercises does not mean an occurrence of AFib. You should not avoid increasing your heart rate; you just need to increase your exercise tolerance safely.

Moderate-intensity exercises like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, and various types of aerobics are usually advised for individuals with stable atrial fibrillation. A good strategy would be to start at a slower pace by doing exercises for 20 to 30 minutes, six days a week, at an intensity where you can still converse while exercising.

The frequency and intensity levels should then be gradually increased. Do not abruptly start exercising vigorously or exhaust yourself, particularly if there has been little physical activity over some time.

It is vital that you keep following your cardiologist’s advice on how to control your heart rate, how to manage your heart rhythm, and on taking the medication that was prescribed to you. Should you experience symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, fainting, or prolonged arrhythmia during exercise, you should immediately cease physical activity and consult your doctor.

Given proper medical advice, people with atrial fibrillation can continue performing physical exercises such as jogging or cycling. Such physical activity is recommended for everyone to maintain good cardiovascular health.

I hope this information is helpful. Please feel free to ask if you have any further questions.

Thank you.