Nearly 10% of people over 65 will develop a heart rhythm disorder, also known as atrial fibrillation (AFib). Troy Hounshell, DO, MercyOne Iowa Heart Center electrophysiologist, shares the connection of AFib to your risk of stroke and why a WATCHMAN device could be your best treatment option.
Symptoms of atrial fibrillation
An irregular heart rhythm, AFib can lead to stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. Symptoms of AFib include:
- Palpitations
- Rapid fluttering in chest
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Chest pains
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
If you have a documented heart rhythm disorder, speak with your cardiologist. Otherwise, visit your nearest emergency department if you experience these symptoms.
Different treatments for atrial fibrillation
AFib is not a curable condition. Instead, AFib requires long term treatment that is split into two categories.
“When looking at treatments for atrial fibrillation it is categorized into two sections,” says Dr. Hounshell. “Stroke prevention and management of the arrhythmia itself to treat the symptoms.”
You can be treated for stroke with medications, such as blood thinners. However, a growing number of people who have AFib cannot be on blood thinners long term. This is when the WATCHMAN device is considered.
The goal of treatment
“The most important part of managing AFib is protecting you from having a stroke,” says Dr. Hounshell.
AFib slows down the heart’s rhythm, not allowing it time to contract and squeeze blood out. This slower blood flow puts you at a higher risk for stroke.
Strokes occur near the left atrial appendage, a pouch that hangs off the left side your heart. When blood flows through that area of the heart, it can end up in the pouch.
Over 90% of stroke-causing clots from the heart, are formed in this left atrial appendage.
WATCHMAN device and the future of care
The WATCHMAN Device is a surgical implant that reduces the risks of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. The implant is placed in the left atrial appendage to help prevent blood clots.
“The WATCHMAN device goes into the pouch, covering the hole allowing the blood flow to continue past,” says Dr. Hounshell. “Blood clots are reduced, and patients are less likely to have a stroke.”
There continue to be improvements to the WATCHMAN device, left atrial appendage therapy and AFib treatment.
“Here at MercyOne Iowa Heart, we are going to be at the forefront,” says Dr. Hounshell. “We’re involved in clinical research and trials because this future technology is going to be great for you and your family.”
The WATCHMAN device is offered at several MercyOne locations across the state:
MercyOne Iowa Heart Center Des Moines
