“Cardiac Electrophysiology Reborn “was the theme on the 9th Convention of the Philippine Heart Rhythm Society last September 16, 2023 Press Conference held at Marco Polo Hotel, Pasig. It was set that September is the “Atrial Fibrillation Public Awareness” month.
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) means irregular heartbeat. Dr. Erdie Fadreguilan, PHRS President, said “AFib is a heart rhythm disorder or abnormality that usually presents as palpitations/shortness of breath, nausea, easy fatigability or sometimes simply as an abnormal ECG or finding of irregular pulses during checkups.
It is a common heart rhythm problem or arrhythmia, but don’t be misled by its “common” abnormality because it can raise your chances for problems like heart failure (HF) and stroke.
According to the heart health expert, palpitation can be triggered by stress, exercise, medication are rarely a medical condition although heart palpitation can be a worrisome and usually harmless.
Dr. Fadreguilan said, screening is highly recommended among those of 75 years old /or regardless of age, those with heart disease/risk factors: such as heart failure, diabetes, previous stroke and diseases of the blood vessels including coronary artery diseases (heart artery blockage). Checkup can start with a simple checking of pulses and is later confirmed by ECG (electrocardiogram)
Dr. Francis Marcellus Ramirez, PHRS Vice President, pointed out “AFib are getting younger. The typical age of a person with AFib is about late 50s and early 60s. Teens and 20 something who have it, were diagnosed to have other health conditions, comorbidities and found to have vices. Comorbidities like congenital defects could cause AF to manifest earlier in life. Aside from diabetes and hypertensions other metabolic disorders like hyperthyroidism and pulmonary embolism could also be the root of the problem”.
Dr. Luigi Pierre Segundo pointed out, “once you are diagnosed to have AFib, you need treatment to prevent stroke and heart failure (HF). A procedure called catheter ablation which is done in a number of hospitals in the country can improve Heart Failure in patients with AF.
The Heart doctors who pursued the cardiovascular field of electrophysiology and cardiac pacing are called “electricians of the heart”.
“Healthy habits which include maintaining healthy weight and sleeping pattern are non- negotiables. Time for exercise and sports (with doctor’s clearance) is sacred. Take your medicines and minerals/vitamins religiously. Always stay hydrated means increase your fluid as in water intake, have coffee in moderation and sip wine guide. Watch your coffee and wine dosage,” Dr. Fadreguilan stressed.
Here are some health practices needed in order to avoid AF provided by the PHRS:
- say NO to drugs and smoking.
- Learn how and teach your children to cope with stress. The combination of school and social dynamics can be stressful for even for young people. An overwhelming dose of stress (both mental and physical) can jumpstart electrical signals.
- A good balance of minerals/vitamins; water and calories helps the body function. A lack or deficiency in magnesium calcium and potassium……water dehydration is not good for the heart.
- Be oral/dental health-conscious. A link between periodontal health and AFib has been established. Regular dental prophylaxis/scaling lessens AFib risks and foils infection.
Philippine Heart Rhythm Society, is a medical society who specialized to treat patients with heart disorders including Atrial Fibrillation. Its mission and vision is to be a leader in Heart Rhythm Management in Asia Pacific Region by 2025. An organization of he4alth rhythm professionals and allied specialists committed to giving quality care for Filipino patients with cardiac rhythm disorders through education, research and advocacy.
