What is AFib and can it be treated?
By Sam Aznaurov, MD
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is an irregular heartbeat affecting the upper chambers of the heart. It can affect the heart’s pumping efficiency and contribute to blood clots in the heart. These conditions can lead to stroke, heart failure, sudden cardiac arrest and other complications.
Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death in the U.S. despite being largely preventable and treatable. It is also a leading cause of serious, long-term disability. Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. suffer a stroke. Black and Hispanic Americans are at higher risk of stroke than people in other groups, as are patients who have previously suffered a stroke.
Symptoms of AFib include a racing pulse or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, fluttering or thumping in the chest, dizziness, anxiety, weakness, faintness or confusion, sweating, and chest pain or pressure.
According to the American Heart Association, people with the following health conditions are at highest risk for AFib:
- Advancing age
- Longstanding, uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Prior heart attack or heart disease
- Family history of AFib
- History of smoking
- Sleep apnea
- Diabetes
If you experience any heart-related symptoms and have health conditions associated with AFib or stroke, schedule a visit with your health care provider. Your provider will ask you about your symptoms, review your medical history and may order tests.
Like hypertension and diabetes, AFib is a chronic illness, and can impact longevity if it is left untreated. Fortunately, AFib can be successfully treated.
If you are found to have AFib, treatment options may include:
- Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications to prevent blood clots
- Medication to help slow your heart rate and restore normal heart rhythm
- Procedures to control the electrical impulses causing the AFib
- Pacemaker or other surgery
Most patients diagnosed with AFib are prescribed anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications to prevent blood clots. The types and doses of medications are determined by the patient’s stroke risk.
It is important to tell each of your health care professionals, including your dentist and pharmacist, about all of the prescribed and over-the-counter medications and supplements you take. Ask your provider how to take your medications and share any reactions you experience.
If you forget to take a daily dose of your heart medication, call your health care professional and follow their instructions. Always report any unusual bleeding, bruising or other problems right away.
To help prevent heart-related health issues, be sure to get regular checkups with your primary care provider and complete all recommended tests and instructions. Tell your provider about any changes in your health as well as ongoing concerns.
Sam Aznaurov, MD, is an electrophysiologist with ProHealth Heart & Vascular Care. To learn more about the services provided, visit ProHealthCare.org/Heart or call 262-928-8800 to schedule an appointment.
