Atrial high rate episodes refer to periods of abnormally fast heart rhythms originating from the atria.
These episodes are usually detected through continuous monitoring or implanted devices like pacemakers or defibrillators.
Atrial high rate episodes (AHREs) are characterized by a rapid heart rate originating from the atria.
AHREs can be triggered by age-related changes in the heart’s electrical system, structural heart abnormalities, heart disease, thyroid problems, excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, and certain medications.
Many patients with AHREs are asymptomatic.
Some individuals with AHTEs may feel palpitations of a racing or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or fatigue during these episodes.
AHREs are often detected during routine cardiac monitoring or through implantable devices like pacemakers or defibrillators.
AHREs can increase the risk of developing more serious heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), stroke, or heart failure.
Not all patients with AHREs progress to these conditions.
The management of AHREs depends on frequency and duration of the episodes, underlying causes, and individual patient characteristics.
Treatment options may involve lifestyle modifications, such as reducing alcohol or caffeine intake, medication to control heart rate or rhythm, or the use of anticoagulants to prevent blood clots and stroke.
Among patients with AHREs detected by implantable devices, anticoagulation with Edoxaban did not significantly reduce the incidence of composite of cardiovascular death, stroke, or systemic embolism as compared with placebo (N0AH-AFNET 6 investigators).