From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — St. Vincent’s Health System is raising awareness during American Heart Month. St. Vincent’s said emotional, mental and physical exhaustion can lead to heart health issues.
A new study suggests you may be at an increased risk for atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib, if you experience long periods of “burnout.”
The European Journal of Preventive Cardiology published the study, which was conducted by surveying more than 11,000 people. Participants with high levels of extreme exhaustion were 20% more likely to develop AFib.
Symptoms of AFib include an irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain. AFib can occur in brief episodes or may be a permanent condition. The condition can increase your chances of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.
AFib is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia and can be managed with medication, surgery and healthy lifestyle changes.