AN IRREGULAR FAST HEART RHYTHM
Atrial Fibrillation
An irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that raises the risk of stroke and heart failure. Managed with rate control, rhythm control, anticoagulation and, in selected patients, ablation.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder, in which the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat in a rapid, disorganised way. This leads to an irregular pulse, palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue and, importantly, a significant risk of clot formation in the heart that can travel to the brain and cause stroke. AF can be intermittent, persistent or permanent, and is more common with age, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular disease, diabetes, obesity, thyroid disorders and excess alcohol intake. Some patients have no symptoms and AF is detected on routine examination. Modern management combines rate control, rhythm control where appropriate, anticoagulation to prevent stroke and treatment of underlying causes, with catheter ablation or cardioversion in selected cases. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive AF care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Increasing age
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease and heart failure
- Heart valve disease, particularly mitral valve
- Diabetes and obesity
- Hyperthyroidism
- Excess alcohol intake and binge drinking
- Lung disease and sleep apnoea
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
ECG, Holter monitoring, echocardiography and thyroid testing
Paroxysmal · Persistent · Long-standing persistent · Permanent
Anticoagulation based on stroke-risk score
Rate control, rhythm control, anticoagulation, cardioversion or ablation
Regular follow-up with ECG and clinical review
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Stroke Prevention with Rate / Rhythm Control
The most effective approach combines stroke prevention with anticoagulation based on individual risk, rate or rhythm control depending on symptoms and patient preference, treatment of underlying causes and cardiology referral for cardioversion or catheter ablation where appropriate.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms and risk factors, examines the heart and orders ECG, Holter monitoring, echocardiography and thyroid tests.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created focusing on stroke prevention, symptom control and management of underlying conditions.
- 3
Medical Management
Rate or rhythm-control medical therapy, anticoagulation according to stroke risk and treatment of underlying causes; cardiology referral for cardioversion or ablation where indicated.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review of symptoms, heart rate, anticoagulation and underlying conditions to maintain optimal control and prevent complications.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Rate-Control Medical Therapy
Medication is used to control heart rate and ease symptoms, particularly in persistent AF.
Rhythm-Control Therapy
Restoring and maintaining normal sinus rhythm is the goal in selected patients, particularly those with significant symptoms.
Anticoagulation Therapy
Anticoagulation, based on individual stroke risk, is the cornerstone of stroke prevention in AF.
Cardioversion (Referral for cardiology)
Electrical or pharmacological cardioversion can restore sinus rhythm in suitable patients.
Catheter Ablation (Referral for electrophysiology)
Catheter ablation may be considered in patients with persistent symptoms despite medical therapy.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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