Can You Live A Normal Life with Atrial Fibrillation? Expert insights
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders, affecting millions worldwide.
Naturally, receiving a diagnosis can be unsettling, raising questions about how it might affect your daily life. Many patients wonder, “Can I still live a normal life with Atrial Fibrillation?”
The encouraging answer is yes. Thanks to modern treatment options and a proactive approach to heart health, it’s entirely possible to manage AFib effectively and live a full, active life.
In this blog, Dr Tamkeen Kinah, a renowned cardiologist in Dubai, shares expert insights on managing symptoms, reducing risks, and maintaining a vibrant, active lifestyle—helping you regain control and confidence in your life.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial Fibrillation is a common type of arrhythmia where the heart beats irregularly and often too fast. Unlike a normal, steady heartbeat, AFib results in electrical signals in the upper heart chambers (the atria), disrupting the regular rhythm and flow of blood.
This irregular heartbeat can reduce blood flow, increasing the risk of blood clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it may cause a stroke. AFib is also associated with a higher risk of heart failure, especially when left untreated.
Despite these risks, with timely diagnosis and consistent treatment, many people live long, healthy, and active lives with AFib.
How does AFib affect your daily life?
AFib can vary from person to person. While some people experience noticeable symptoms, others may go years without realising they have it.
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and low energy: Irregular heartbeats can reduce your heart’s efficiency, making you feel tired even after light activity.
- Shortness of breath: Some people experience difficulty breathing during exertion or even at rest due to poor blood circulation.
- Heart palpitations: Palpitations may cause discomfort, anxiety, or a sense of unease, especially during episodes.
- Sleep disturbances: Racing heart or nighttime symptoms may interfere with quality sleep and lead to daytime drowsiness.
- Emotional impact: The unpredictability of AFib can lead to stress, anxiety, or fear of engaging in certain activities or travel.
Can you live a normal life with Atrial Fibrillation?
Absolutely. Many AFib patients continue to work, travel, exercise, and enjoy their favourite hobbies. The key lies in understanding the condition, following your treatment plan, and making a few lifestyle adjustments.
Dr Tamkeen Kinah emphasises four essentials for living well with AFib:
- Medical management: Medications such as blood thinners, beta-blockers, or anti-arrhythmic drugs are often prescribed to control heart rate, rhythm, and stroke risk.
- Healthy lifestyle: Eating a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol and caffeine, and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage symptoms.
- Monitoring your symptoms: Track your heart rate, note any changes in symptoms, and attend regular follow-ups to monitor your heart’s health.
- Understanding and avoiding triggers: For some, stress, dehydration, poor sleep, or excessive alcohol can trigger AFib episodes. Identifying and managing these can help prevent flare-ups.
Living with Atrial Fibrillation: Practical tips from Dr Tamkeen Kinah
While an AFib diagnosis may feel overwhelming at first, many people live normal, active lives by adopting a few smart lifestyle habits. According to Dr Tamkeen Kinah, managing AFib successfully goes beyond just medication—it’s about making daily choices that support heart health.
First, consistency is key. Take your prescribed medications exactly as directed and attend all follow-up appointments. This helps your doctor monitor your condition and adjust treatment if needed.
Second, maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle. Focus on balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt, sugar, processed foods, and saturated fats. Stay physically active — even light daily exercise like walking can support heart rhythm and improve energy levels.
It’s also important to avoid common triggers. Alcohol, caffeine, dehydration, and emotional stress can increase the risk of AFib episodes. Learn what affects your body and adjust your habits accordingly.
Stress management plays a major role too. Deep breathing, mindfulness, yoga, or simply taking time to unwind each day can help calm your nervous system and reduce the frequency of irregular rhythms.
Finally, know your symptoms and listen to your body. If something feels off — like a racing heart, dizziness, or shortness of breath — don’t ignore it. Early intervention can prevent complications and give you greater peace of mind.
With a proactive mindset and expert guidance, living well with AFib is not only possible but fully achievable. Dr Tamkeen Kinah emphasises that you don’t have to let AFib limit your lifestyle — you need the right plan and support to thrive.
Treatment options to manage AFib
The treatment for AFib is highly individualised and depends on factors such as age, symptom severity, and overall health.
Common treatments include:
- Medications: Several medications, including anticoagulants, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and rhythm-control drugs, can help control heart rate and prevent blood clots.
- Electrical cardioversion: A quick, non-invasive procedure where controlled electric shocks are delivered to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.
- Catheter ablation: A minimally invasive procedure where targeted heart tissue causing abnormal rhythms is destroyed using heat or cold energy.
- Lifestyle modifications: Includes maintaining a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, avoiding alcohol and stimulants, staying hydrated, and quitting smoking.
- Implantable devices: In cases where rhythm control fails, pacemakers may be used to regulate the heartbeat.
Take control of your heart health today
Living with Atrial Fibrillation may come with challenges, but with the right support and care, you can lead a full, active, and healthy life. From lifestyle adjustments to advanced treatment options, managing AFib is entirely possible — and you don’t have to do it alone.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with AFib, consult Dr Tamkeen Kinah, one of the most respected heart specialists in Dubai.
As an accomplished Consultant Cardiologist and Heart Specialist, he provides expert guidance in clinical and preventive cardiovascular care. His extensive experience, patient-centric approach, and commitment to excellence make him the trusted choice for individuals seeking top-tier heart care in Dubai.
FAQs
Yes, many people with AFib live full, active lives. With the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular heart check-ups, you can continue doing what you love while effectively managing your condition.
Living healthy with AFib means following a heart-smart lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet, stay active (with your doctor’s advice), manage stress, avoid triggers like alcohol or caffeine, and take your medications as prescribed.
If AFib becomes difficult to manage with medication alone, advanced options like catheter ablation or pacemaker insertion may be needed. Even then, symptoms can often be controlled, and serious complications can be prevented.
You can try deep breathing, staying hydrated, avoiding caffeine or alcohol, and resting. Some patients use specific techniques like coughing or bearing down, but always check with your doctor before trying these.
Life expectancy with AFib can be close to normal if the condition is well-managed. The biggest risks — stroke and heart failure — can often be prevented with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
