Atrial fibrillation is a chronic rhythm problem that increases with age. It is a major cause of stroke in the population. As a result of the development of uncontrolled chaotic rhythm in the atria (auricles) of the heart, the rhythmic work of the heart's ventricles is also disrupted. (Sample video) Most of the patients present to the emergency department with the complaint of irregular heartbeat. However, some patients do not feel this rhythm disorder and are diagnosed with long-term complications such as heart failure and stroke. In fact, the majority of stroke patients (especially the elderly) in the community have underlying continuous or intermittent atrial fibrillation.
The diagnosis ?
Atrial fibrillation can easily be diagnosed on electrocardiography (ECG). However, additional examinations such as ultrasonography of the heart (Echocardiography), transesophageal echocardiography, or coronary angiography are often required to decide which method to use in the treatment.
What are the treatment options?
What is atrial fibrillation ablation (cryoablation)?
The most important drugs for atrial fibrillation patients are anticoagulants (blood thinners). Irregular rhythm in the atria causes irregular and fast contraction of the heart. This causes pooling of blood in the atria and especially left atrial appendage. Any clot in the left side of the heart may cause embolic events such as occlusion of arteries in the body. If cerebral arteries are affected by these clot, patients suffer ischemic stroke which may be fatal or cause severe sequale such as paralysis or plegia. In order to prevent clot formation, atrial fibrillation patients have to use blood thinners throughout their lives.
