At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias, including Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder that requires careful monitoring and treatment. Our team of experienced cardiologists and electrophysiologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to patients with AFib to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.

Conditions Overview:

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and often rapid heartbeats. In AFib, the heart’s upper chambers (atria) beat chaotically and out of sync with the lower chambers (ventricles), leading to an irregular heartbeat. This can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications.

Symptoms of AFib:

The symptoms of AFib can vary from person to person but may include:

• Palpitations or a rapid, irregular heartbeat.
• Fatigue or weakness, especially with exertion.
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Fainting or near-fainting episodes.

Diagnosis and Evaluation:

Diagnosing AFib typically involves a thorough evaluation of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These may include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): A test that records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect irregular heart rhythms characteristic of AFib.
• Holter Monitor: A portable device worn by the patient to continuously monitor heart rhythm over a 24 to 48-hour period, allowing for the detection of intermittent arrhythmias.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test that provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, helping to assess heart function and detect underlying heart conditions.
• Blood Tests: Measurement of cardiac biomarkers and electrolyte levels to assess heart function and rule out other medical conditions.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for AFib aims to restore normal heart rhythm, control heart rate, prevent blood clots, and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment options may include:

• Medications: Prescription medications such as antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and anticoagulants may be prescribed to help regulate heart rhythm, control heart rate, and prevent blood clots.
• Cardioversion: A procedure that uses electrical shock or medications to restore normal heart rhythm in patients with AFib.
• Catheter Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy or cryotherapy to destroy abnormal heart tissue responsible for triggering AFib.
• Surgical Maze Procedure: A surgical procedure performed during open-heart surgery to create scar tissue in the heart’s atria, disrupting abnormal electrical signals and restoring normal heart rhythm.
• Left Atrial Appendage Closure: A procedure to seal off the left atrial appendage, where blood clots often form in patients with AFib, reducing the risk of stroke.

Recovery and Management:

Managing AFib requires ongoing medical care, lifestyle modifications, and close monitoring to prevent complications and optimize heart health. Patients with AFib are encouraged to:

• Follow their prescribed treatment plan and take medications as directed by their healthcare provider.
• Monitor their heart rhythm regularly and report any changes or worsening symptoms to their healthcare team.
• Adopt heart-healthy habits such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with their cardiologist or electrophysiologist to assess progress and adjust treatment as needed.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we are committed to providing personalized and compassionate care for patients with Atrial Fibrillation. Our experienced team utilizes advanced diagnostic and treatment options to effectively manage AFib and improve patients’ overall quality of life. If you or a loved one is living with AFib, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our cardiology team to discuss treatment options and develop a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.