OVER the past decade, one of the revelations that has emerged in the medical community is the reality that atrial fibrillation (A Fib) is not a passive disorder and is growing in prevalence.

Associated with an increased stroke risk, palpitations, and fainting, it is now being implicated as a cause of worsening cardiovascular disorders and mortality. A Fib is an electrical abnormality of the upper chambers of the heart, causing them to “shake” rather than contract properly to fill the ventricles. Effects include clot formation in the heart, which, if it embolises, can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. These clots can also travel, causing infarctions in the fingers, toes, and even bowels. Another, now recognised, effect is the development of dementia.

A Fib has now been associated with worsening heart function, either as the primary cause or by exacerbating any prior cardiac conditions that may already exist. Recent studies have linked A Fib with worsening coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attacks.

The management of this condition focuses on controlling the heart rate and, where possible, restoring the patient to a normal rhythm.

Patients are placed on anticoagulants or blood thinners to prevent clot formation. A key treatment is cryoablation, which helps prevent the patient from experiencing recurrent A Fib and maintains a normal rhythm. This treatment is particularly recommended for patients with intermittent A Fib, especially those with heart disease.

Patients with A Fib should not believe that it is a benign condition and should seek expert therapy.

Partners Heart and Health is the only centre in Jamaica that offers cryoablation for the treatment of A Fib. Contact them at info@pic-jm.com.