Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), one of the most common heart rhythm disorders worldwide, is an increasingly serious health problem in India.
Almost 8 million Indians are thought to be affected by it, and most are unaware of it. AFib is often slow to develop and so can go undiagnosed for years, and could lead to a potentially deadly stroke at this stage.
AFib is a condition of the heart’s upper chambers, called the atria, beating irregularly and fast. This abnormal rhythm impedes the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently and blood fills up in the atria. This can lead to blood clots over time. If one of these clots gets to the brain, it can block an artery and trigger an ischemic stroke.
One of the biggest concerns in atrial fibrillation is its silent nature. And while some people experience a racing heartbeat, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, chest discomfort or shortness of breath, others may have no warning signs at all. AFib is often diagnosed only when a patient has a stroke or another serious cardiovascular complication.
Healthcare professionals say the number of AFib cases in India is increasing because of an aging population and the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related conditions.
High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid disorders, heart disease, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and physical inactivity are among the major risk factors associated with the condition.
Cardiologists advise people over 60 years of age and those with cardiovascular risk factors to take regular health checks. A pulse check or electrocardiogram (ECG) can often detect an irregular heartbeat and tell doctors that AFib is there before complications develop.
The association between atrial fibrillation and stroke is well-established. People living with AFib are at a higher risk of having strokes than those with a normal heart rhythm, experts suggest. Strokes with AFib are more severe and can lead to long-term disability and long-term hospitalization, or to death if not treated quickly.
Atrial fibrillation can be treated effectively if it is diagnosed early. Blood-thinning medication i.e., fewer clots in the heart and drugs to regulate the rhythm or rate of the heart and catheter ablation i.e., catheter ablation in selected patients are the most effective treatments available for this.
Doctors also recommend lifestyle changes including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Public awareness of AFib is crucial and stroke-related deaths will be lessened by awareness of AFib, according to experts. Early identification of the symptoms, personal risk factors and timely medical treatment will help to minimize serious complications.
As cardiovascular diseases continue to put more pressure on India’s healthcare system, doctors say, people should not ignore persistent palpitations, unexplained fatigue or irregular heartbeats. Early detection and proper treatment can substantially reduce the risk of stroke and help people live longer, healthier lives.
Atrial fibrillation is often hidden but it is a manageable condition once it is detected.
Frequent medical check-ups and more awareness can help save millions of Indians from preventable strokes and other cardiovascular emergencies.
