Better Cures For Widespread Heart Problem

Atrial fibrillation is affecting more and more people; one treatment has proven superior, and better approaches are on the way. By Scott M. Miller, M.D., F.A.C.C., Director Cardiac Electrophysiology, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.

TOWARDS A DRUG-FREE CURE FOR ATRIAL FIBRILLATION  More than 2.2 million Americans have some form of atrial fibrillation (afib), making it the most common type of heart rhythm abnormality. We expect its prevalence to double in the next 30-40 years.   Afib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart—the atria—beat rapidly and irregularly.  Symptoms of afib include fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations, difficulty exercising, chest discomfort, and light headedness or fainting. The irregular beating can cause blood to stagnate in the heart’s chambers, increasing the risk of blood clots from the heart causing a stroke.  People with afib are, on the average, five times more likely to have a stroke than those without the condition. …

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