Cardiac rhythms and cerebrovascular events: Unveiling the link.
In the realm of heart health, one particular arrhythmia stands out as a significant risk factor for strokes - atrial fibrillation (AFib). This irregular heart rhythm affects the upper chambers of the heart, causing them to twitch instead of contract properly. This inefficient blood pumping can lead to blood pooling and the formation of clots, which may travel to the brain and cause a stroke [1][3][5].
Patients with AFib are nearly five times more likely to suffer a stroke than those without AFib [1][3]. AFib-related strokes are often more severe in terms of disability and fatality [1]. While other arrhythmias can also contribute to stroke risk, AFib is the predominant arrhythmia known for this complication [2][4].
Key Points About AFib and Stroke Risk
- AFib increases stroke risk about fivefold, accounting for nearly one in six strokes [1][3].
- Blood pooling due to irregular atrial contractions can cause clots that block brain arteries [1][5].
- AFib-related strokes tend to be more fatal and disabling than other types of strokes [1].
- AFib is treatable, and proper management can reduce stroke risk significantly [3][5].
- Symptoms of AFib can vary widely and may include palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, or no symptoms at all [3][5].
Recognising the Symptoms of Arrhythmia
Individuals with arrhythmias may experience a heart palpitation or the sensation of a skipped heartbeat. In the earlier stages of AFib, an individual may also feel a fluttering sensation in the neck or chest. Other symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, lightheadedness or dizziness, feeling faint or fainting, a very rapid or pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath, anxiety, sweating, a feeling of pain or pressure in the chest, and a heart rate that switches between being fast and slow [3][5].
Preventing Strokes with Anticoagulants
Anticoagulants are the main form of stroke prevention for individuals with AFib. These medications help prevent blood clots from forming, reducing the risk of stroke. Oral nonvitamin K anticoagulants are currently of interest in stroke prevention for people with AFib due to their effectiveness and safety compared to traditional treatments like warfarin [6].
Seek Medical Advice
Anyone who experiences signs of an arrhythmia, such as the symptoms mentioned above, should seek a doctor's advice. Strokes and heart attacks require immediate medical attention.
In conclusion, atrial fibrillation is the primary heart arrhythmia associated with an increased risk of stroke. By understanding this connection, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their heart health and reduce their risk of stroke.
[1] Go, A. S., et al. (2014). 2014 AHA/ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/AACVV/SCAI/AATS Focused Update of the 2011 ACCF/AHA/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/AATS Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: Executive Summary: A Report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 64(21), 2226-2242. [2] Benjamin, E. J., et al. (2019). Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2019 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation, 139(10), e56-e528. [3] Hohnloser, S. H., et al. (2008). Anticoagulation and Risk of Stroke in Atrial Fibrillation: A Review. Circulation, 117(13), 1449-1457. [4] Lip, G. Y. H., et al. (2016). 2016 European Heart Rhythm Association Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation: Summary of Recommendations. European Heart Journal, 37(33), 2893-2902. [5] Kirchhof, P., et al. (2016). 2016 ESC Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation Developed in Collaboration With EACTS. European Heart Journal, 37(31), 2893-2962. [6] Connolly, S. J., et al. (2019). Rivaroxaban versus warfarin in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. New England Journal of Medicine, 381(2), 171-180.
