CHARLESTON, S.C. – Doctors and patients alike emphasize the life-saving importance of being aware of how the heart beats, especially when it comes to atrial fibrillation (AFib). Dr. Jeffrey Winterfield, Chief of Cardiac Electrophysiology at the Medical University of South Carolina, explains that one in three to one in four adults over the age of 40 to 50 develop AFib, a type of heart arrhythmia. However, even those who don’t fit the typical risk profile should stay vigilant, as AFib can affect anyone.
Patient Experiences and the Risk of AFib
For patients like Joanne Hines, managing AFib is crucial. Hines, who has had three ablations and a pacemaker installed, reflects on the initial misconception she had about the condition. “I thought it was just nerves or that it didn’t really affect me that much,” she said. But after undergoing her first ablation, Hines realized the severity of AFib and the potential dangers it poses, such as chest discomfort, palpitations, and even strokes if left untreated.
Prevention and Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation
Dr. Winterfield advises that AFib can be triggered by factors such as alcohol, smoking, sleep apnea, diabetes, and high blood pressure, though it can also affect individuals without any of these risk factors. He encourages those experiencing symptoms like chest discomfort or breathlessness to see a doctor immediately. Treatment options for AFib include blood thinners, anti-rhythm medications, and ablation, with a pacemaker being a last resort. Winterfield stresses the importance of regular physical exams and quick action if you notice your heart is out of rhythm.
