Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and rapid heartbeat that can cause symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest pain. While the condition can be managed and controlled with medication and lifestyle changes, it is not curable. The length of time that an individual can stay in atrial fibrillation varies depending on the severity of the condition and the person’s overall health.
The duration of AFib can be anywhere from a few minutes to several weeks or months. If the condition is left untreated, the average time that someone may stay in AFib is 6-12 months. However, the duration can be much shorter or longer depending on the individual. Some people may experience a single episode that resolves on its own after a few minutes, while others may have multiple episodes that can last for months.
In some cases, AFib can become chronic, meaning that it lasts for more than one year. Chronic AFib is more common in individuals with underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Having one or more of these conditions increases the risk of developing and staying in AFib for longer periods of time.
The most important factor in determining how long someone can stay in atrial fibrillation is receiving proper treatment. If the condition is managed successfully with medication and lifestyle modifications, then the duration of the episodes can be significantly reduced. In some cases, individuals may even be able to stop taking their medications and the episodes may stop completely. It is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options and work together to find the best approach for managing your AFib.