Atrial Fibrillation

AFib and Stroke Risk - Atrial Fibrillation Treatment Options in India

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a common type of irregular heartbeat. This short explains why the condition increases the risk of having a stroke, even for people who feel perfectly well.

What is atrial fibrillation?

AFib is a condition where the heart's upper chambers, the atria, beat irregularly and out of coordination with the lower chambers.

• Irregular rhythm. Instead of a steady, regular beat, the heart can feel like it is quivering or beating very fast. This is sometimes called fibrillation.
• Poor blood flow. The chaotic rhythm means the heart may not pump blood as efficiently as it should.
• Symptoms can vary. Some people feel palpitations, shortness of breath or fatigue. However, many people with AFib have no symptoms at all and are unaware of their condition.

How does AFib cause a stroke?

The primary danger of AFib is its potential to cause a stroke. This risk is present even if you do not feel any symptoms.

• Blood can pool. Because the atria are not pumping effectively, blood can slow down and pool inside them. This most often happens in a small pouch of the left atrium.
• Clots may form. When blood pools, it is more likely to form clots. These are clumps of blood that have become solid.
• Clots can travel. If a piece of a blood clot breaks off, it can enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain. If it lodges in an artery in the brain, it can block blood flow and cause a stroke.

Managing the risk of stroke

Treatment for AFib focuses on controlling the heart's rhythm or rate, and on preventing the formation of blood clots.

• Blood thinners. Medications called anticoagulants are often prescribed. They make it harder for blood to clot and are very effective at reducing the risk of stroke in people with AFib.
• Heart rate control. Other medicines may be used to slow the heart rate, which can help the heart pump more efficiently and reduce symptoms.
• Heart rhythm control. Some treatments aim to restore a normal heart rhythm. These can include medications, a procedure called electrical cardioversion, or a catheter ablation.
• Individual assessment. The choice of treatment depends on the type of AFib, your symptoms, and your overall stroke risk, which is assessed by a doctor.

The suitability of any treatment depends on your specific condition, medical history, and other risk factors. A final recommendation can only be made after a specialist has reviewed your case and recent medical reports.