Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Support Group
Atrial fibrillation (AF or afib) is an abnormal heart rhythm (cardiac arrhythmia) which involves the two small, upper heart chambers (the atria). Heart beats in a normal heart begin after electricity generated in the atria by the sinoatrial node spread through the heart and cause contraction of the heart muscle and pumping of blood.
I have been wondering if heredity plays a role in one's being affected by AF.
On my mother's side, there are several relatives/ancestors who had arrhythmias although the type is unknown. My mother had arrhythmia issues and I recall she took Digoxin for many years. My maternal grandfather had arrhythmias and had a pacemaker, although I do not know any further details. My uncle dealt with AF. (all are deceased).
A few months ago, my son came across this article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141003064455.htm - a genetic test which the Swedes have developed. My cardiologist said he was not aware of this being done clinically in the US but referred me to an EP to field the question pertaining this article and I have a 7 Jan appointment with the EP to discuss this and other questions.
Do any of you have ancestors or relatives with AF or other arrhythmia issues. Do you believe having an ancestor with arrhythmias predisposes us to also having AF?
On my mother's side, there are several relatives/ancestors who had arrhythmias although the type is unknown. My mother had arrhythmia issues and I recall she took Digoxin for many years. My maternal grandfather had arrhythmias and had a pacemaker, although I do not know any further details. My uncle dealt with AF. (all are deceased).
A few months ago, my son came across this article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141003064455.htm - a genetic test which the Swedes have developed. My cardiologist said he was not aware of this being done clinically in the US but referred me to an EP to field the question pertaining this article and I have a 7 Jan appointment with the EP to discuss this and other questions.
Do any of you have ancestors or relatives with AF or other arrhythmia issues. Do you believe having an ancestor with arrhythmias predisposes us to also having AF?
It will be interesting to hear what your EP has to say about that.
Take care,
across the pond (atp)
My mother had a pacemaker and afib. My sister had heart problems but of a different nature. My father died of a stroke at age 78. I don't know the medical history of other family members. I also believe I'm predisposed to both bradycardia and afib by family history/genetics plus aging. Was diagnosed in 2010 @ age 76. For me, aging and with my family's history it was not a matter of "if" but "when".
Fortunately I'm able to live with it sans medication, except warfarin, or any procedures so far.
Annette
My Dad had pace maker and 2 strokes. I don't know if he had afib.
My paternal grandfather had it.
My father had it; stroked out at 62 (22 years ago)
My maternal grandfather had a different heart condition
My maternal grandmother stroked out at 62 (40 years ago)
My mom had massive heart attack not related to AFIB or llifestyle; genetic high cholesterol
My brother had a massive heart attack at 46 (15 yrs ago) related to lifestyle, unrelated to AFIB.
I tell my kids to watch out! They better live right!
Robert
My older sister hasn't had to deal with AF....
I will post an update after my 7 Jan visit with the EP.
I am convinced mine is due to radiation and chemotherapy, add on being treated foe hypothyroidism since I was 17 and it I think it's a given as there is not a known afib in the family.
laurab