Correlation Found Between Untreated Atrial Fibrillation and Cognitive Impairment
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC: Advances) has shed light on the potential consequences of untreated atrial fibrillation. According to the research, failing to properly manage this heart condition can increase the risk of cognitive impairment.
Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the atrium, the upper chambers of the heart, lose their normal rhythm and beat irregularly. When this occurs, blood can pool in the atrium, potentially leading to the formation of blood clots that can cause a stroke.
The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that over 2 million American adults currently suffer from atrial fibrillation, a number expected to rise to 12 million by 2030. Recent studies have also highlighted the association between atrial fibrillation and not just cardiovascular complications, but also neurological issues such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
To investigate the link between atrial fibrillation and cognitive impairment, researchers examined the medical data of 4,309,245 adults in the UK. The results revealed a heightened risk of cognitive impairment in patients with untreated atrial fibrillation. However, patients who received proper treatment for their condition showed no increased risk compared to healthy individuals.
Specifically, the study found that individuals with untreated atrial fibrillation faced a 45 percent higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment compared to those without the condition or those who received adequate treatment.
The general approach to treating atrial fibrillation typically involves the use of oral anticoagulants, along with inotropic drugs like digoxin and antiarrhythmic drugs such as amiodarone.
Based on their findings, the researchers concluded that the failure to effectively treat atrial fibrillation can significantly increase the risk of cognitive impairment. This highlights the importance of early intervention and proper management in minimizing potential complications.
This study serves as a wake-up call for healthcare professionals and individuals with atrial fibrillation alike. Addressing this condition promptly and ensuring appropriate treatment is crucial not just for cardiovascular health, but also for preserving cognitive function.
By recognizing the potential consequences of untreated atrial fibrillation, we can strive for improved patient outcomes and a better quality of life for those affected by this common heart condition.
▲ Research has shown that if atrial fibrillation is not treated properly, the risk of cognitive impairment increases. (Photo = DB)
[메디컬투데이=이승재 기자] Research has shown that if atrial fibrillation is not treated properly, the risk of cognitive impairment increases.
A study on the correlation between atrial fibrillation and cognitive impairment was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC: Advances).
Atrial fibrillation is a condition where the normal contraction and relaxation of the atrium is lost and the heart beats irregularly. If you have atrial fibrillation, blood can continue to stay in the heart, causing blood clots to form, which can lead to a stroke.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), more than 2 million American adults currently have atrial fibrillation, and this number is expected to increase to 12 million by 2030. Recently, it has been reported that atrial fibrillation can cause not not only cardiovascular complications but also neurological complications such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
Researchers analyzed medical data from 4,309,245 adults in the UK to investigate whether patients with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of developing cognitive impairment.
The results of the study showed that patients with atrial fibrillation have an increased risk of developing cognitive impairment. However, in patients receiving good treatment for atrial fibrillation, this risk did not differ from that of healthy adults.
The researchers reported that those with untreated atrial fibrillation had a 45 percent higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment compared to those without atrial fibrillation or with appropriately treated atrial fibrillation.
The general treatment of atrial fibrillation includes oral anticoagulants along with inotropic drugs (digoxin) and antiarrhythmic drugs (amiodarone).
Based on these results, the researchers concluded that if atrial fibrillation is not treated properly, the risk of developing cognitive impairment increases.
Medical Today Reporter Seungjae Lee (ecthomas@mdtoday.co.kr)
[저작권자ⓒ 메디컬투데이. 무단전재-재배포 금지]
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