Living with AFib: A Guide to Heart Health

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is more than just an irregular heartbeat; it's a prevalent heart condition with significant health implications. It  can dramatically increase the risk of stroke. Affecting millions globally, with an estimated 12.1 million people in the United States projected to have AFib by 2050, many people live with it unknowingly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Understanding AFib – what it is, how it's detected and why it matters – is essential for safeguarding your well-being.

Your Heart’s Irregular Beat 

Imagine your heart's upper chambers (atria) fluttering instead of beating steadily and in sync. This is AFib, a condition where irregular electrical signals cause the atria to beat rapidly and unevenly. This disrupts the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently, sending less oxygen-rich blood to the body. 

"AFib is the most common cardiac arrhythmia we treat," explains Mustanser Badar, MD, an interventional cardiologist at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Group and St. Luke’s Health - Brazosport Hospital. "It's a condition where the normal, organized electrical signals that make your heart beat in a steady rhythm become disorganized and rapid. This impacts patient well-being and long-term health."

The Importance of Early AFib Detection 

Many people living  with AFib may not experience noticeable symptoms. This can make early detection difficult and raise the potential for severe health impacts , like stroke.

"A significant concern with AFib is the increased risk of stroke," explains Dr. Badar. When atria don't contract properly, blood can pool in the atrial crevices and form clots. If one travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.” AFib can increase stroke risk by as much as 20%, according to a study published in the Journal of Family Community Medicine, so early detection and treatment is vital.

AFib not only increases the risk of stroke but can also result in other health  issues, including  heart failure and chronic fatigue.

Recognizing the Signs

AFib can be diagnosed in several ways, often starting with symptoms or a routine check-up:

• Symptoms: People might experience palpitations (a racing or fluttering sensation), shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue or chest discomfort. These often prompt a visit to the doctor.  Other patients may receive a diagnosis after experiencing  a stroke.

• Routine physical exam: Your doctor might notice an irregular pulse, which prompts  further investigation.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): If symptoms or an irregular pulse are detected, a physician will typically order an ECG. This simple, non-invasive test records the electrical activity of your heart and is the primary diagnostic tool for AFib.  If AFib occurs infrequently, extended monitoring with either a cardiac event monitor or implantable loop recorder may be needed for detection.

• Wearable technology: Smartwatches and other devices monitoring heart rate can sometimes alert you to an irregular rhythm, prompting medical evaluation.

The Four Pillars of AFib Treatment

Once AFib is diagnosed, a comprehensive treatment plan is developed. This plan is often guided by what the Heart Rhythm Society refers to as the Four Pillars of AFib management:

1. Stroke prevention: This is paramount. Blood thinners, or (anticoagulants, are often prescribed to prevent clot formation.

2. Rate control: Medications help slow the heart rate, improving the heart's pumping efficiency.

3. Rhythm control: These methods work to restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm. This can involve  medications, electrical cardioversion, or ablation procedures to correct faulty electrical pathways.

4. Lifestyle and risk factor management: Customized plans help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. It is essential to address underlying conditions, such as  high blood pressure, obesity, sleep apnea, diabetes, smoking and thyroid disorders.

"Our goal with AFib treatment is multi-faceted," Dr. Badar notes. "We want to prevent serious complications like stroke, but equally important is ensuring our patients feel better and can live full, active lives."

Empowering Yourself

"Educating our patients is crucial," Dr. Badar highlights. "Clearly explaining their condition, treatment, and what to expect significantly empowers them to manage their health effectively."

If you or a loved one has received an AFib diagnosis, understanding your condition is the first step towards better health. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor questions and ensure you're clear on your treatment plan. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Badar today, or find a specialist near you.