Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
What is AFib?
In Atrial fibrillation (AFib) the atria, top portion of the heart, beats irregularly. This irregular beating causes blood to pool in the atria. The pooled blood could form a clot and restrict blood flow to the various parts of the body.
What are the dangers of AFib?
Untreated AFib doubles the risk of heart-related deaths and is associated with a fivefold increased risk for stroke. Yet many people are unaware that AFib is a serious condition.
Symptoms
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General fatigue
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A rapid and irregular heartbeat
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Fluttering or “thumping” in the chest
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Dizziness
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Shortness of breath and anxiety
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Weakness
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Faintness or confusion
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Fatigue when exercising
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Sweating
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Chest pain or pressure
What are the treatment options?
AFib treatment varies depending on the diagnosis
1. Medication
Doctors commonly prescribe blood thinners to prevent and treat the formation of blood clots.
2. Electro Cardioversion
This treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses electrical shocks to reset the electrical activity of the heart. This method is similar to the method employed by a defibrillator.
3. Catheter Ablation
This method employs the use of a catheter to destroy malfunctioning cardiac tissue. The catheter is generally inserted in an artery near the groin or wrist and is carefully guided towards the heart, where the catheter burn the malfunctioning cardiac tissue.
*For more information, visit https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
If you are experiencing any symptoms or want to see what treatments are right for you please contact us to make an appointment.