AFib and Blood Clots
When AFib occurs, blood clots may form. Blood clots formed as a result of AFib can damage the lungs, brain, and other parts of the body. AFib is responsible for one out of five blood clot-caused strokes.
People who have had one short episode of AFib have a risk of stroke similar to individuals who have never had AFib. If AFib is accompanied by damage to the valves within the heart, the risk of stroke increases by 17 times when compared to similar populations.
People who have AF and suffer a stroke due to a clot are twice as likely to die as opposed to victims who do not have a history of AF. Among stroke survivors who have AFib, the chance of having additional strokes and poorer outcomes is greater than the rest of the population. Complication rates increase with age.
Preventing Progression and Complications
Management of AFib focuses on three areas. These include controlling how fast the heart beats, restoring a normal rhythm, and preventing blood clot formation.
AFib results in a very fast heart rate. One goal is to slow down the contractions of the heart in order for the organ to rest and effectively pump blood throughout the body. This is often accomplished with medications classified as beta blockers. Some commonly used beta blockers include metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol, and sotalol.
Converting the heartbeat to a normal pattern may require treatment with medication or cardioversion. Beta blocking medications may help to maintain a healthy rhythm. Other cardiac medications, called ACE inhibitors, are often prescribed as well.
If you are maintaining adequate circulation and are not in acute distress, cardioversion may be planned and carried out if medications are ineffective. However, if the heart is showing signs of damage and circulation is poor, emergency treatment with cardioversion is necessary.
Other AFib treatments include a procedure called ablation, and placing a pacemaker.
Most people who have AF are also treated with anticoagulants, medications that “thin” the blood, to prevent clots. Health care providers select drugs to use based upon an array of factors. They weigh the risk of bleeding from the medications with the risk of stroke occurring. Common medications used to prevent blood clots include warfarin and heparin.
When to See a Cardiologist
While AFib may be managed by a general practitioner, I recommend that anyone who has a history of AFib consult with a cardiologist. It is especially important to consult a cardiologist if your pulse rate remains high or if paroxysmal AFib is frequent. If you have had a heart attack or heart failure, a cardiologist must be consulted.
A cardiology consult should also be sought for guidance regarding cardioversion and long term management of AFib, and a complete cardiac workup must be obtained in order to rule out other heart problems.
Living with AFib
Most people who have a diagnosis of AFib are able to lead healthy, normal lives. Seeing a health care provider and getting prescribed tests helps to prevent the condition from progressing to serious ills.
Managing stress and avoiding excess caffeine may reduce the likelihood of AFib occurring. It is important to take precautions that reduce the chances of bleeding from anticoagulant medications. Live a heart healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet, not smoking and getting regular exercise if your doctor approves.
Seek immediate medical treatment if you experience AFib dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain occurs. Learn the signs and symptoms of stroke and if you experience any of them, call emergency medical services immediately. By taking these steps, life with AFib is very manageable and life can be sweet.
