Heart News for Workaholics – and Chocoholics
2/20/2024
Consistently working long hours might do more than wear you out – it could also raise your risk of a common and potentially dangerous heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation, or AFib. The information came from a study of more than 85,000 people in Europe, finding that those who worked 55 or more hours per week were about 40 percent more likely to develop AFIB than those working 35-40 hours.
AFib is the most common form of cardiac arrhythmia, and has been a commonly known risk factor for stroke. Some experts have been quick to note that – because the study couldn’t prove cause and effect – its results should be interpreted with caution.
In AFib, the heart’s two small upper chambers – the atria – don’t beat the way they should. Instead of beating in a normal pattern, the atria beat irregularly and too fast, quivering like gelatin. The heart needs to pump properly so your body gets the oxygen and food it needs. Some of the most common symptoms of AFib include:
- Irregular and rapid heartbeat
- Heart palpitations or rapid thumping in the chest
- Dizziness or sweating with chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath or sudden anxiety
- Fatigue when exercising
- Fainting
It’s estimated that between 3 and 6 million people in the U.S. have atrial fibrillation. One can live with AFib, but untreated it can lead to other medical problems including stroke, heart failure, chronic fatigue and inconsistent blood supply. The risk of stroke is about five times higher in patients with AFib, as blood can pool in the atria and trigger blood clots. Treatment options include medications such as beta blockers or calcium channel blockers to slow or regulate heart rhythms, blood thinners to prevent clots from forming, and even electrical cardioversion, a pacemaker or other surgical procedure, depending on the underlying cause and level of disability.
Interestingly, researchers at Harvard recently published the results of yet another atrial fibrillation study – this one focused on the link between chocolate and AFib. A study of more than 55,000 Danish men and women clearly suggests that eating a little chocolate regularly may lower the odds of developing AFib. The most positive impact was seen in the group who ate 2 to 6 servings per week.
If you suspect your heart rhythm might be irregular, be sure to ask your primary care doctor to do a preliminary evaluation, and to refer you to a cardiologist if needed.
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