Atrial fibrillation is a type of heart disorder where your heartbeat shows irregular rhythm and beats faster than normal time. Arrhythmia, or atrial fibrillation, can cause blood clots, strokes, cardiac arrest, and other related heart issues. The upper two chambers in the heart (the atria) beat frantically and erratically during AF, causing them to lose synchronisation with the bottom two chambers (the ventricles). The irregularity usually happens as we age, and most people with AF symptoms are quite aged. In Western countries, you may see people around 60 may experience AF, while in India, it is 55. Patients with diabetes & BP are more likely to have it sooner. Consult the best cardiologist in Chennai to know more about atrial fibrillation.

A significant issue regarding atrial fibrillation is the possibility of blood clots forming in the atria, which could travel to other organs & cause ischemia (restricted blood flow). A stroke occurs when the lump or clot bursts off and enters the bloodstream, which later settles at the atrial side of the brain. AF affects 15–20 per cent of individuals who are already suffering from strokes. Atrial fibrillation could result in cardiac failure under challenging situations.

Signs And Symptoms Of AF:

AF increases the heartbeat and a hammering in the chest which is in contrast to regular functioning of the heart. This sensation typically takes several minutes, and people frequently experience a heartbeat skip. In this condition, people often become breathless or giddy. Chest tightness, pain, excessive sweating, and tiredness and weakness are all common symptoms. Patients suffering from diabetes and BP may not have those symptoms; however, they are more likely to develop AF.

We at Sugam evaluate patients after knowing their complete history through various procedures, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), pressure tests, and echocardiography, to identify AF. The ECG detects and records electronic pulses flowing through the heart using small sensors (electrodes) connected to your arms and chest. This test is the most common way to diagnose atrial fibrillation.

We also utilise a holter, a portable ECG gadget that may be handled by the individual and records the heart’s function for 24 hours in situations where the uneven heating is protracted. The holter recordings show us information regarding your heart continuously. The echocardiogram employs acoustic signals to create moving images of the heart, which aids in diagnosing mechanical heart problems and blood clots. Then the pressure test is conducted, which is performed while exercising. Medical tests & X-ray are also performed to identify AF in addition to these.

How Do The Symptoms Of AF Vary From Cardiac Arrest?

These warning symptoms can be found in a variety of heart conditions. A patient’s reaction could be comparable and ambiguous – agitation, pain, worry, etc. A cardiac arrest happens when the blood supply to the heart is blocked by a clot or plaque build-up lodged inside the blood vessel. Although a few heart problems are immediate and severe, most heart problems start gradually with just minor pain or distress. Palpitation and a sensation that someone’s heart is skipping beats are two distinct symptoms of AF. In either scenario, you should see a cardiologist as soon as possible. Furthermore, a comprehensive study is needed to define whether this is AF or an incident. You can learn more about AF by consulting the best heart specialist hospital in Chennai.

What Is The Link Between Atrial Fibrillation And Stroke?

A stroke is characterised by a prolonged interruption of brain function caused by a rapid decrease in blood flow towards the brain. This results in a lack of oxygenated blood in some locations (those receiving blood from the damaged blood vessel). The epithelial layer dies as a result of this. As a result, these areas can still not execute their everyday activities, either temporarily or permanently.

Long-term effects include distortion of speech, eye problems and immobility of the legs and facial muscles. A blood clot is the most prevalent risk factor for stroke. Persons with AF are more likely to have strokes since blood would not be effectively pushed out from the heart, causing a clot could form. This clot may then proceed to the brain, blocking blood supply toward a brain region, resulting in a stroke.

AF is frequently overlooked as a factor in stroke, which is regrettable. The Crystal-AF research was performed by neuroscientists & cardiologists to understand the relationship between strokes and AF. A loop recorder is inserted beneath the epidermis and beyond the heart to record and maintain heartbeats. These findings have shed light on why individuals with AF are more likely to suffer a stroke.

Individuals with AF are likely to develop dementia. As a result, there is indeed an essential connection between the brain and the heart, which neurologists should look into. Cardiologists and neuroscientists work together on various domains of the heart and brain to prevent stroke. You can know the difference by reaching out to the best cardiology hospital in Chennai.

Is AF Curable?

Yes, there is a cure for AF; however, it will vary depending on your body conditions and related underlying factors . Atrial fibrillation can be relieved by treating the underlying illness that causes it. So, treating AF includes retrieving your heartbeat to avoid clots and thereby reducing the risk of stroke. There are also medications available to regulate your heartbeat. In rare situations, more invasive treatment may be required, including medical therapies involving catheterisation or operation to install a device to maintain your heartbeat at the appropriate rate and prevent it from pumping too slowly. Visit a cardiology hospital in Chennai to cure AF.

Why Is There Not Enough Knowledge On AF?

It’s fascinating to learn that only 10% of the population are aware about AF. However, many people out there are unaware about this medical condition and get to know at the last stage. As AF has become one of the major global causes for stroke and death in elderly people, medical providers and volunteers through camps and related programs should educate the audience about the adverse effect of AF.

AF can be overlooked sometimes because of the lack of awareness. World Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Day has been observed in the United States to create awareness about the condition. These actions act as a tool to determine the knowledge about AF in patients and related to stroke.