Depressed people have an increased risk of atrial fibrillation finds new study
Depressed people have an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, according to a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, a European Society of Cardiology (ESC) journal. Medication was not responsible for the high frequency of atrial fibrillation in depressed people. The findings were reported during Global AF Aware Week (November 19 to 25).
Depression predicts the development of coronary artery disease and worsens its prognosis. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia). It causes 20-30% of all strokes and increases the risk of premature death. The prevalence of atrial fibrillation roughly doubles with each decade of age, rising to almost 9% at 80-90 years. Signs of atrial fibrillation include palpitations, shortness of breath, tiredness, chest pain and dizziness.
The study investigated whether depression is also linked with atrial fibrillation and whether antidepressants were responsible for increased incidence of atrial fibrillation in depressed people. Filling a prescription for antidepressants was used as an indicator of depression in this study.
The study included all 785,254 Danish citizens initiated on antidepressant treatment from 2000 to 2013. The risk of atrial fibrillation was assessed after starting treatment and in the month before, when it was assumed that patients were depressed but medically untreated.
The study showed that in the month before starting medication, the risk of atrial fibrillation was 7.65-fold
Compared with the general population, patients taking antidepressants had a 3.18-fold higher risk of atrial fibrillation during the first month of treatment. The association gradually reduced thereafter, to 1.37-fold at 2-6 months, and 1.11-fold at 6-12 months.
Filling a prescription for antidepressants, was associated with a three-fold greater risk of atrial fibrillation. The decrease with time suggested that treatment may alleviate this risk.
The study showed that in the month before starting medication, the risk of atrial fibrillation was 7.65-fold.
“The message for patients who already have atrial fibrillation is that you do not need to be concerned about taking antidepressant medication if you need it. Look after your mental health because our study supports existing evidence that problems with the mind can be detrimental for the heart,” added lead author Mr Fenger-Grøn.
