IL-6 and CRP Inflammatory biomarkers such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive proteins (CRP) have been found to be elevated in setting of atrial fibrillation. Inflammation likely plays a role in initiation and perpetuation of AFIB. Tissue analysis of the left atrium in patients with AFIB has shown signs of inflammation. Inflammatory markers have been…
Category: arrhythmias
fitness trackers – not worth it!
I was one of the early adopters of fitness trackers. But very soon thereafter I gave them up. 4 reasons: Inaccurate Not helpful Cardiac neurosis Big data Inaccurate: There was a class action lawsuit against FitBit based on inaccuracy of its data. Apple Watch has been very well received by cardiologists and patients alike. While…
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AFIB – 4 pillars of treatment
Anticoagulation Rate control Rhythm control Lifestyle (risk factor) modification Anticoagulation Anticoagulation is used to prevent stroke based on the CHA2DS2VaSC score. Patients with a score more than or equal to 2 require anticoagulation based on ACC/AHA/HRS guidelines. In Europe, they anticoagulate for a score of more than or equal to 1. Some common anticoagulants are…
low carb diet and AFIB
Low carb diets are associated with an increased incidence of AFIB according to an ARIC substudy. Low carb diets may include high intake of animal protein and low intake of fruits, vegetables and grains which together may promote inflammation – an evolving risk factor for atrial fibrillation.
CAAP-AF score
This score attempts to predict patient outcomes for catheter ablation with AFIB. This is not a perfect science, however it may help us better choose patients for AFIB ablation.
hybrid AFIB ablation procedure
Who is this procedure for: Longstanding persistent AFIB (constant AFIB >1 year in duration) Or has failed multiple catheter ablation procedures Or has a very large left atrium Who performs this procedure – We offer this procedure at BCH in collaboration with our cardio-thoracic surgeons Cardiothoracic surgery team – Dr. Mahan and Dr. O’Hair. Electrophysiology…
cha2ds2vasc score 1 – anticoagulate?
Great review by Cavallari et. al in Heart Rhythm Journal for a common clinical question. •Deep stratification of thromboembolic risk is advisable, while also considering other possible predictors of increased risk beyond the CHA2DS2-VASc score, such as renal failure, left atrial enlargement, low flow in the left atrial appendage, different left atrial morphologies, and spontaneous…
alcohol-AFIB trial
If you have AFIB, alcohol will make it worse. Maybe it is time to stop or cut alcohol intake significantly