Recently on The Bryan Crabtree Show, Dr. Michael Gold recently spoke out about his efforts to inform lowcountry residents of the dangers of atrial fibrillation (also known as AFib).
A condition that affects 2.5 million Americans, atrial fibrillation occurs when the two top chambers of the heart beat erratically. Instead of the usual 60 to 70 beats per minute, the heart of someone with AFib will beat 300 to 400 times a mintute.
Dr. Gold, who works as the director of Cardiology at MUSC said that “The biggest concern [with an AFib patient] is that blood clots can form…Many patients need to be on blood thinners.”
Besides blood clots, those suffering from AFib may experience shortness of breath, an inability to exercise, blackouts, or low heart rate. As AFib is a leading cause of stroke, awareness and management of the condition is crucial.
“Medication can help control these episodes,” Dr. Gold stated.
Some patients are eligible for an ablation procedure, in which a catheter is inserted through a patient’s leg veins and then placed onto the heart. The procedure burns small areas in the heart; the scars left on the areas correct the heart arrhythmia.
Two-thirds of patients that receive this treatment see significant improvement in their condition post-operation.
While there are ways to treat the condition, people can take easy steps to prevent getting it. As the causes of AFib include high blood pressure, coronary blockages or existing coronary disease, and diabetes, simple measures such as increased exercise, weight loss, and reduced alcohol consumption can lower the risk of AFib.
Short term diagnosis of AFib is all about stroke prevention. Dr. Gold estimated that half of AFib patients don’t understand the stroke risk, and thus, they are not taking measures (such as blood thinners) to prevent strokes. According to Dr. Gold, one third of all strokes could be prevented with appropriate AFib medication or procedures.
85% of atrial fibrillation patients are over the age of 65, and the risk increases with age. If you or someone you know may have AFib, consult your doctor for appropriate courses of action.
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