-
Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
Why are people with atrial fibrillation more likely to suffer from strokes?
Related Topics
-
Find a professional to answer your question
Find a professional to answer your question Search Now
-
4
Thanks
Dr Shakeeb Razak
Cardiologist (Heart Specialist)
Dr. Shakeeb Razak completed his undergraduate medical training at the University of Western Australia and his postgraduate cardiology training at Royal Perth Hospital. He undertook … View Profile
Atrial fibrillation is associated with chaotic activity in the upper chambers (atria) of the heart, particularly the left atria. That results in impaired blood flow particularly around the left atrial appendage, which has the highest area for thrombus formation. This can result in thromboembolic stroke if a clot is dislodged from this area.
People with long term atrial fibrillation can develop tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (heart muscle weakening due to longstanding rapid rates of atrial fibrillation). This can sometimes go undiagnosed for a period of time. This can also result in left ventricular and left atrial appendage thrombus (clot) formation. Long standing atrial fibrillation can result in dilatation of the atria which can result in valvular heart disease such as mitral regurgitation. These factors can also subsequently increase the risk of thromboembolic strokes in these patients.Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
You may also like these related questions
-
How do I lower my bad cholesterol?
I eat lots of nuts fresh fruit ,use olive oil and I still have a level of 6.5 …I need to lower it. How do I do this?/ -
Can certain foods have a protective and preventative effect against cardiovascular disease?
-
How many Australian’s suffer heart attacks each year?
