Ascension Michigan Heart Report: Dr. Hassan

Atrial Fibrillation and Risk Factors

Question: What is AFib and what are the risk to patients?

Dr. Hassan: Atrial fibrillation is quivering of the upper chambers of the heart, which presents with symptoms of shortness of breath, palpitations and dizziness. Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include excessive alcohol intake, diabetes, over weight and thyroid disease.

Question: What are the latest treatments for AFib?

Dr. Hassan: Atrial fibrillation can be treated with catheter-based ablation or surgical ablation with reasonable success. For those who cannot take blood thinners, we can place devices in the heart so that patients can avoid taking blood thinners long term.

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