Atrial fibrillation (A-fib) is a common heart rhythm disorder that often affects seniors after they have experienced a heart attack. While the primary focus after a cardiac event is on recovery, it's also important for seniors to be aware of A-fib symptoms and the increased risk of developing this condition after experiencing a life-altering incident. Being mindful and aware allows you to enjoy life without fear.
What Is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat caused by electrical signals that arise from areas other than the heart's sinus node. A-fib can cause complications, including stroke, cardiac arrest, or congestive heart failure.
Atrial fibrillation symptoms can vary widely but may include palpitations (a feeling of extra or skipped heartbeats), dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort. Causes of A-fib vary among patients but can include high blood pressure, thyroid conditions, congestive heart failure, and alcohol use disorders.
Likelihood of Developing Atrial Fibrillation
Of those who experience a heart attack and undergo fibrinolysis, approximately 5-10% will go on to develop A-fib. This is due in part to the stress that a heart attack puts on other parts of the heart, including weakened muscles and scarring. This can lead to abnormal electrical signals leading to an irregular heartbeat.
What Are the Risks?
Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of a stroke since blood clots are more likely to form. A-fib can also lead to shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue, chest pain, and other complications depending on the underlying cause.
How Can Seniors Stay Alert to Atrial Fibrillation?
Senior helpers can provide a sounding board, ensuring seniors stay on top of cardiac monitoring and medication management as needed. In addition to involving your senior's health care team, here are some other tips for staying alert to A-fib symptoms:
Monitor Symptoms
Seniors should monitor their symptoms, tracking any changes in heart rate and taking note of any unusual sensations or feelings.
There are also a variety of products available, including a range of mobile and wearable devices, that can help in monitoring A-fib symptoms. These may include fitness trackers, heart rate monitors, or other health-related wearables that allow seniors to access their data related to cardiac function quickly.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of developing a-fib, including following a healthy diet, maintaining a regular exercise routine (or gradually increasing as recommended by their healthcare provider or primary care physician), and avoiding smoking.
Senior Helpers Louisville Offers In-Home Senior Care
For seniors that have experienced a heart attack, it is helpful to be aware of atrial fibrillation. With the assistance of an in-home senior care provider such as the experts at Senior Helpers Louisville, managing this condition becomes much more manageable. Monitoring for symptoms, reminders to take medication, and making positive lifestyle changes are key to helping seniors stay alert to the potential risks and successfully recover from any previous cardiac event. Contact us today to learn more about our services in Louisville, LaGrange, Crestwood, Jefferson County, and Prospect.