Will physical activity worsen my atrial fibrillation?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 72 years of age and was diagnosed with AFib after having attacks of rapid and irregular heartbeat.

Prior to this diagnosis, I did have regular walks and other forms of exercise. But due to fear of my family members that I will not be able to do exercises safely, the following questions arise:

Is it too risky to exercise with AFib at 72?
Can regular physical activity actually help control my condition, or could it trigger dangerous heart rhythm problems?
Also, how do I know what level of exercise is safe for me? I do no want to stop being active, but I also do not want to take any unnecessary risks.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Atrial Fibrillation at age 71 does not necessarily imply that exercise is out of the question. In fact, exercise may be very beneficial and contribute positively to heart health, lowering of blood pressure, and even reducing the occurrences of AFib attacks.

What one needs to do is avoid pushing oneself too far without being aware of one’s physical capacity. Walking, mild cycling, and other gentle forms of exercise are well-tolerated by most AFib sufferers, but their extent varies from patient to patient depending on their heart function, symptoms, medications, and other conditions.

You should stop and seek advice if you get chest pain, severe breathlessness, dizziness, fainting, or a very rapid, sustained heartbeat. A 30-minute walk before breakfast at least five days a week is good for you, especially after a new AFib diagnosis.

Avoid high caffeine intake, and use regular medicine as advised by your doctor.

Get an echocardiography to rule out structural heart disease and keep an eye on your blood pressure.

Regular follow-up with your regular doctor is important.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.