Atrial fibrillation (AFib) can weaken the heart in multiple ways. First, AFib causes a rapid and irregular heart rhythm, which can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the heart muscle. This can lead to an irregular heartbeat, called arrhythmia, which can make the heart muscle weaker. Second, AFib can cause blood to pool in the atrium, leading to an increase in pressure in the atrium and a decrease in blood flow to the rest of the body. This can cause the heart to work harder and become weaker over time. Finally, AFib can lead to clots in the atrium, which can reduce the amount of oxygen available to the heart, further weakening the heart.
In general, AFib can lead to a weakening of the heart muscle, which can lead to long-term heart problems such as heart failure. Patients with AFib should be monitored and treated appropriately to prevent further weakening of the heart muscle. Treatment options include medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgical interventions. Making changes to lifestyle habits such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and getting regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of AFib and its associated complications.