No, atrial fibrillation (AFib) does not always get worse with age. In fact, the severity and frequency of AFib episodes can vary greatly from person to person and can even improve over time. Some individuals may experience only occasional episodes that are relatively mild, while others may have more frequent and severe attacks.
Age can be a risk factor for developing AFib, as the condition is more common in people over the age of 65. However, some younger people are also at risk, especially those with underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or thyroid disease.
The main treatment for AFib is medications. These can include blood thinners, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and other medications to help regulate the heart rhythm. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly can help reduce the severity and frequency of AFib episodes.
In addition, a procedure called catheter ablation can be used to treat AFib. During this procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein in the groin and guided to the heart, where electrodes are used to identify and destroy the tissue causing the irregular heart rhythm. This procedure can often be used to reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.
In conclusion, AFib does not necessarily get worse with age. While age is a risk factor, there are other underlying medical conditions that can also increase your risk. Fortunately, treatments such as medications and catheter ablation can help to reduce the severity and frequency of AFib episodes.