Atrial Fibrillation

What is it?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm disorder where the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat irregularly and chaotically, affecting the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. Instead of contracting normally to move blood into the lower chambers (ventricles), the atria quiver, leading to an irregular and often rapid heartbeat.

What can I do?

1. Monitor Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms such as palpitations (feeling of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats), fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.
2. Manage Risk Factors: Control high blood pressure, manage diabetes, and maintain a healthy weight. Addressing these factors can help reduce the risk and severity of AFib episodes.
3. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can trigger AFib episodes. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to help manage AFib symptoms.
4. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress levels, which can contribute to AFib.
5. Medications: Take medications as prescribed by your doctor to control heart rate, prevent blood clots (anticoagulants), and manage underlying conditions that contribute to AFib.

Common Medical Treatments

1. Cardioversion: A procedure to restore normal heart rhythm using electrical shocks (electrical cardioversion) or medications (chemical cardioversion).
2. Catheter Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is used to deliver energy (radiofrequency or cryotherapy) to the heart tissue that triggers abnormal electrical signals, restoring normal rhythm.
3. Medications: Antiarrhythmic medications to control heart rhythm (rhythm control) or heart rate (rate control), as well as blood thinners to reduce the risk of stroke.
4. Implantable Devices: Devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may be recommended to regulate heart rhythm or deliver shocks if needed.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to support heart health, such as dietary adjustments (low-sodium diet), regular physical activity, and stress management.

When to Consult Your Doctor

• Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of AFib, especially if they are severe or persistent.
• Monitor and report changes in symptoms or if you notice irregularities in your heart rhythm.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider regularly to adjust treatment as needed and monitor for complications.

Remember

Atrial fibrillation requires ongoing management to reduce the risk of complications such as stroke, heart failure, or other heart-related issues. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors, taking medications as prescribed, and seeking timely medical care, you can effectively manage AFib and improve your quality of life. Working closely with your healthcare provider is essential for developing an individualized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and minimises the impact of AFib on your health.