Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common condition that causes an irregular and often rapid heart rate. It affects nearly three million people in the United States.
It can be difficult to determine whether senior family members are suffering from atrial fibrillation because some seniors have no warning signs at all, or only exhibit mild symptoms. That's why it's important for caregivers to understand what AFib is to provide proper care.
Types of Atrial Fibrillation
Caregivers may encounter several different types of atrial fibrillation, and each one requires a specific approach to treatment:
Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
This term refers to short bursts of AFib that don't last very long. Most episodes range from minutes to hours before returning back to a normal rhythm.
Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
This type of AFib can last for days, weeks, months, or years if it is not treated. It's considered more serious than paroxysmal because it increases the risk of stroke and heart failure.
Long-Standing Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
This form describes cases where the individual has had the condition for an extended period of time that lasts over a year. There are varying levels of intensity throughout that timeframe.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation and Blood Clots in Seniors
There may be several symptoms seniors with atrial fibrillation experience, including:
- Shortness of breath
- Weak pulse
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
Warning Signs
Typical warning signs to look for include fainting spells or loss of consciousness. If your senior loved one notices a feeling as if their heart is 'skipping a beat', this may be an indicator of AFib. Sweating and palpitations are also common.
Additionally, blood clots can form from AFib which can put the senior at risk for stroke. Some warning signs for this are numbness or weakness in the arms/face/legs on one side. There may be confusion or difficulty speaking, a severe headache without a known cause, and trouble seeing out of one or both eyes. If any of these warning signs occur, it's important to seek medical attention right away.
Risk Factors
One of the most common risk factors for atrial fibrillation is age. As people get older, their likelihood of developing this condition increases significantly. Those over the age of 60 are more prone to AFib than younger people. Additionally, genetics can play a role in a person's risk factors as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease both increase one's chances of developing an irregular heart rhythm or blood clots.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In order to diagnose atrial fibrillation and blood clots, doctors commonly use an electrocardiogram (EKG). This can help determine if the heart is sending electrical impulses correctly. This can help a doctor identify any irregular rhythm in the heartbeat, as well as changes in function that may be indicative of AFib or clot formation. A medical professional may also decide to run other tests such as echocardiograms and blood work to confirm a diagnosis before prescribing treatments.
Treatment options depend on several factors and should be discussed with a physician. Medications and lifestyle changes can decrease the severity of symptoms while preventing further complications like stroke. In severe cases, surgery might even be suggested.
Caregiving Tips
A senior's doctor may prescribe medications to help control AFib or prevent stroke. Make sure seniors stay on schedule with taking their medications and give gentle reminders when necessary.
Regularly checking in with seniors throughout the day helps keep track of any changes in their health, especially if they are having episodes or when warning signs arise. Even something as simple as keeping an eye on their breathing rate can provide peace of mind.
Eating healthy foods, limiting salt intake, exercising regularly (with approval from a physician), and quitting smoking if applicable can go a long way in helping manage both blood clots and atrial fibrillation. This decreases risk factors while improving overall heart health. Additionally, help seniors avoid consuming alcoholic beverages since they have been known to worsen symptoms even further.
It's also important to make sure seniors remain compliant with follow-up appointments. They should be monitored closely by medical professionals who will update treatments accordingly based on condition progression. Routine checkups and urgent trips back into the office, depending on circumstance and severity level at that time, may be necessary.
Seek Assistance With Senior Helpers Lexington
Atrial fibrillation and blood clots can be difficult conditions to live with. Hopefully, this guide has provided some helpful tips regarding the types of AFib as well as what symptoms to look for.
It's important to talk with professional caregivers when providing care for seniors that have atrial fibrillation or are at risk of developing blood clots so they get the right support and treatment they need.
With proper care and lifestyle management, seniors in the Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, and West Columbia areas affected by these conditions will always have a place where they feel secure, nurtured, understood, and safe. Connect with Senior Helpers of Lexington for additional tips as well as in-home care assistance when needed.