How should atrial fibrillation be managed in older adults?

Question

Hello doctor,

My grandfather is experiencing atrial fibrillation. He had stents placed 20 years ago.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

There is no need to worry about it. Atrial fibrillation is common in older adults and heart patients. There are two aspects to the treatment: one is to control the heart rhythm, which is already controlled according to the ECG (electrocardiography) report (attachment removed to protect patient identity), and the other is to use blood thinners to reduce the risk of stroke. Therefore, he should start taking blood thinners such as Dabigatran or Rivaroxaban to prevent a stroke, in addition to other blood thinners like Aspirin. Also, his printed ECG report shows a slow ventricular rate, so his medication should be adjusted to achieve a heart rate between 60 and 70 beats per minute. Otherwise, he may experience dizziness if the heart rate is too low. Please discuss these issues with your local doctor. Overall, with medication, this is usually not a cause for concern.

Thanks and regards.