Cardiovascular condition
Life expectancy with atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that raises the risk of stroke and is associated with other cardiovascular conditions.
What the research suggests
Atrial fibrillation is associated with elevated stroke and mortality risk, but much of the stroke risk is manageable with anticoagulation where appropriate. Outlook depends heavily on coexisting heart conditions and how well risk is managed.
What changes the outlook
Appropriate anticoagulation, rate or rhythm control, and managing underlying heart conditions and blood pressure are the key factors.
What helps
- Anticoagulation where indicated
- Rate or rhythm control as advised
- Managing blood pressure
- Treating underlying heart conditions
Estimate your own range
Answer around a dozen short questions and get a five-year age range based on your profile. It takes about two minutes.
Start the estimatorCommon questions
Does atrial fibrillation reduce life expectancy?
Atrial fibrillation is associated with elevated stroke and mortality risk, but much of the stroke risk is manageable with anticoagulation where appropriate. Outlook depends heavily on coexisting heart conditions and how well risk is managed.
What improves the outlook with atrial fibrillation?
Appropriate anticoagulation, rate or rhythm control, and managing underlying heart conditions and blood pressure are the key factors.
Can I get a personal estimate?
This tool gives a statistical estimate as a five-year range based on your overall profile, including atrial fibrillation alongside your other answers. It is not a prediction. For personal medical guidance, speak to a GP or specialist.