Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke Risk - How to Prevent?

Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, is an irregular heart rhythm often observed in elderly patients, typically over 60 years of age. In AFib, the patient's heart beats irregularly and chaotically, even when at rest.

According to Dr. Alain Patrice Lebon, a French expert with over 15 years of experience in treating rhythm disorders in Hanoi French Hospital: "Some people with AFib may appear healthy and are unaware of their condition until it's detected during routine health checkups or electrocardiograms. Others may experience symptoms such as:

Heart palpitations or pounding in the chest

Skipping, irregular, or uneven heartbeats

Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or exercise

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or even a feeling of impending fainting

Reduced ability to exert yourself, weakness, or fatigue

Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort.”

Many different underlying conditions can contribute to AFib, including:

Post-heart surgery

Congenital heart disease

Coronary artery disease

Heart valve disease

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Heart failure

Chronic lung disease

Hyperthyroidism

Viral infections

Sleep apnea

Pericarditis (inflammation around the heart).

Dr. Lebon emphasizes the close relationship between atrial fibrillation and the risk of stroke. AFib increases the risk of stroke up to 5 times compared to individuals with normal heart rhythms. AFib accounts for approximately 25% of all stroke cases and often leaves severe consequences.

Therefore, if you experience any symptoms of AFib, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a timely diagnosis and treatment.

Additionally, you can reduce the risk of developing other heart conditions and strokes by managing and monitoring your blood pressure, and diabetes if you have it, maintaining a tobacco-free lifestyle, staying physically active, adopting a balanced and healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress effectively.

For detailed information and to make an appointment with Dr. Lebon as well as other specialists of HFH, please call our hotline at 024 3577 1100, message our Fanpage "Hanoi French Hospital" or contact our Zalo official account at zalo.me/2008009049335817955