Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm abnormality. This is the uncoordinated beating of both the left and right atria which are the upper chambers of the heart. This results in an increased risk of blood clot formation in the heart. These clots can travel up to the brain through the blood vessels and cause strokes.
For some, AF is an ongoing medical issue, in others it goes away or it can even come and go. Atrial Fibrillation increases in frequency with age and typically occurs in people who have underlying heart disease or high blood pressure. Some people with AF are unaware of their condition as there are often no symptoms. However, some symptoms can include:
- Mid chest tightness or pain
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Having trouble breathing, especially with exercise
- Feeling your heart racing or skipping beats
Echo Heart Centre can perform test's on patients who have suspected Atrial Fibrillation.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) which measures the electrical activity of the heart and allows assessment of heart rate and rhythm
- 24 hour Holter Monitor – This is a continuous recording of every heart beat over 24 hours. This allows the doctor to diagnose the Atrial Fibrillation if it is intermittent.
- Transthoracic echocardiogram (echo) – this is an ultrasound picture of your heart which can help diagnose possible causes of AF.
There are some lifestyle changes that can be made to reduce the risk to having AF.
These include:
- Controlling your blood pressure
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Cutting down on caffeine
- Weight loss
Atrial Fibrillation can be treated with a range of medical or surgical options.
If you are suffering from any of these symptoms or would like more information please contact us.
