Atrial Fibrillation: The Hidden Heart Rhythm Disorder Behind Many Strokes

Atrial fibrillation often shortened to AF or AFib is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders, yet many people don’t realize they have it until serious complications arise. Based on the results of the inspection from PAFI cardiologists warn that this seemingly harmless irregular heartbeat can significantly increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and even sudden death if left untreated.

What Is Atrial Fibrillation?

Under normal conditions, the heart beats in a steady rhythm pumping blood efficiently through its chambers and to the rest of the body. In atrial fibrillation, however, the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) beat rapidly and irregularly, disrupting blood flow.

According to Dr. Hendra Kurniawan, a cardiologist at the National Cardiac Center in Jakarta, “Atrial fibrillation occurs when the electrical signals in the heart become chaotic. Instead of beating in a coordinated way, the atria quiver or ‘fibrillate.’ This can cause blood to pool in the heart, leading to the formation of clots.”

If one of these clots travels to the brain, it can block blood flow — resulting in a stroke. Studies show that people with atrial fibrillation are five times more likely to experience a stroke than those with normal heart rhythms.

The Silent and Intermittent Nature of AFib

One of the most dangerous aspects of atrial fibrillation is that it often develops silently. Some people feel their heart racing or fluttering, while others experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness. But many have no symptoms at all.

“AFib can come and go without being noticed,” Dr. Hendra explains. “This is why it’s sometimes called a ‘silent killer.’ A person may feel perfectly fine but still have an irregular heartbeat that increases their risk of stroke.”

Doctors classify atrial fibrillation into three main types:

• Paroxysmal AFib, which comes and goes suddenly.
• Persistent AFib, which lasts longer than seven days.
• Permanent AFib, which is continuous and requires lifelong management.

What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?

AFib can occur at any age but is more common in older adults. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, excessive alcohol intake, thyroid disorders, and sleep apnea.

“Lifestyle and chronic conditions play a big role,” says Dr. Hendra. “Uncontrolled hypertension, smoking, and stress all put extra strain on the heart, making it more likely for the electrical system to malfunction.”

How AFib Leads to Stroke

When the atria don’t contract properly, blood stagnates and forms clots. If a clot escapes and reaches the brain, it can cause an ischemic stroke — the most common type. “In many stroke patients, we later discover that the root cause was undiagnosed atrial fibrillation,” Dr. Hendra notes.

Because of this link, early detection and management of AFib are crucial.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Atrial fibrillation is diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the heart’s electrical activity. Doctors may also recommend Holter monitoring, a portable device that tracks heart rhythms over 24 hours or longer.

Treatment focuses on controlling heart rate, restoring normal rhythm, and preventing blood clots. Medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners), beta-blockers, or rhythm stabilizers are commonly used. In some cases, procedures like cardioversion or catheter ablation may be performed to correct abnormal heart signals.

Prevention and Awareness

Experts stress that prevention starts with managing risk factors — maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, avoiding smoking, and exercising regularly. Regular health checkups are essential, especially for those over 40 or with chronic conditions.

“Atrial fibrillation doesn’t always cause pain, but its consequences can be devastating,” Dr. Hendra emphasizes. “By recognizing it early, we can prevent strokes and save lives.”

While AFib may be invisible to the eye, its impact on heart and brain health is anything but. Early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and a heart-healthy lifestyle remain the strongest defenses against this hidden threat.

Source: https://pafikutaikab.org/