Bangalore, 2nd November – Atrial Fibrillation (AF) poses a substantial public health concern due to its potential to lead to life-threatening complications, including paralysis of the full or partial parts of the body due to stroke. It is a type of cardiovascular condition, in which an irregular heart rhythm originating in the upper chambers (atria), causes inefficient blood flow to the lower chambers (ventricles) due to disrupted electrical impulses in the heart. According to hospital studies in India, 10-25% of stroke patients had underlying, silent AF In India, about one-third of Atrial Fibrillation patients are asymptomatic and stroke is often the very first sign that they manifest.
Besides a fivefold risk of experiencing a stroke, Atrial Fibrillation has the potential to result in substantial adverse health consequences, including rehospitalization, impaired quality of life, and decreased work productivity. It is possible to prevent these strokes with oral anti-coagulant therapy which are medicines that dissolve the clots formed in the blood. This is possible if AF is detected on time. Screening of people who are at high risk of AF can help early detection of asymptomatic AF. People above the age of 60, those suffering from medical conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart failure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart disease, lung diseases like COPD, sleep apnea, or hyperthyroidism are at a higher risk of developing AF.
“I see around 5-10 patients with AF daily, and most of them don’t exhibit any symptoms. If such patients are not diagnosed on time, they have a heightened risk of severe, recurring strokes that often lead to higher mortality. Screening is recommended for individuals who are overweight, who have hypertension, diabetes or who have a history of palpitations, or obstructive sleep apnea. While rhythm management is important, stroke prevention is paramount as it poses more risk. In terms of stroke prevention, anticoagulation therapy is recommended. I advise patients to follow a healthy lifestyle and avoid activities that can trigger their risk.” says Dr. Ranjan Shetty HOD & Consultant – Interventional Cardiology MD (AIIMS), DM (PGIMER), FACC, FESC, FSCAI, MBA Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bangalore
In people who have symptomatic AF, the common symptoms include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, palpitations, fluttering sensations, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Additionally, recognizing stroke symptoms like numbness, weakness, confusion, speech difficulties, vision problems, walking issues, dizziness, and unexplained headaches is vital for immediate medical attention.
There are three main types of medications for treating AF, rate control medications (that help regulate the speed of the heart rate), rhythm control medications (that work to restore a regular heart rhythm) and finally anticoagulant medications like blood thinners (that are used to lower the risk of blood clots and strokes). Surgical procedures such as electrical cardioversion or pulmonary vein ablation are required in some patients. In addition, implementing healthy lifestyle changes is crucial, such as abstaining from smoking, embracing a heart-healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. It is possible for people with AF to lead normal and fulfilling lives with the right therapy and lifestyle.
