Staff Report
SAN MARCOS — CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – San Marcos is recognizing National Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month in September by raising awareness about the heart condition.
AFib is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, with approximately 12.1 million people in the U.S. diagnosed with the condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The condition is characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate, occurring when the upper chambers of the heart, known as the atria, do not beat in sync with the lower chambers, stated a CHRISTUS news release.
“This irregular rhythm can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other complications,” said Dustin Meyer, director of cardiac electrophysiology for CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – San Marcos. “It is crucial to recognize the signs of AFib for early detection and intervention.”
Meyer said while AFib can affect anyone, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the condition, such as aging, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.
He said it is important for individuals with any risk factors to be vigilant and proactive in monitoring their heart health.
“Knowing the signs and symptoms is equally important because, despite risk factors, anyone can develop AFib,” he said.
Some symptoms patients can experience are:
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Drop in blood pressure
• Sweating or chest discomfort
“Some patients may not experience any symptoms,” Meyer said. “This is why getting a yearly heart check with your primary care physician is so important.”
CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – San Marcos has a state-of-the-art electrophysiology (EP) lab, marking a significant advancement in cardiac care for the community, the release continued. The new EP lab – made possible by a $1 million donation made by Gloria Ingram and family – focuses on diagnosing and treating complex heart conditions, like AFib, by examining and mapping the heart’s electrical system.
Treatment options for AFib can include medication, lifestyle changes or medical procedures like an ablation.
“An ablation is a minimally invasive procedure targeting and eliminating the abnormal heart tissue responsible for the irregular rhythm,” Meyer said. “By restoring the heart’s normal electrical signals, ablation can effectively treat AFib and reduce the risks of long-term complications.”
He said education is key in preventing and managing heart conditions.
To learn more about AFib, visit bit.ly/3VrH9jA.
