Written by Dr. Bobbi L. Hoppe, MD, FACC, FHRS, of KVH Cardiology
Although September is recognized as Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month by the Heart Rhythm Society and the American Heart Association, the conversation should not stop when the calendar turns to October. As we move into the fall holiday season, we are continuing the awareness and education around atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, because this is a time when stress, travel, celebrations, and changes in routine can affect heart health. AFib is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. It affects the upper left chamber of the heart, called the left atrium, and is sometimes associated with what has been called “holiday heart,” because symptoms can appear around periods of increased stress, celebration, travel, or alcohol use.
During AFib, the heart’s electrical signals become disorganized. Instead of beating in a steady, coordinated way, the left atrium can beat very rapidly. When this happens, blood may not move through the heart as smoothly as it should. Blood can pool in the left atrium or in a small pouch of the heart called the left atrial appendage, which can lead to blood clots. If a clot travels through the bloodstream, it can cause a stroke or another serious blockage.
For some people, a stroke may be the first sign that they have AFib. That is why stroke prevention is one of the most important parts of AFib care. The good news is that there are effective medications and procedures that can greatly lower the risk of stroke for many patients with AFib. Talking with a health care provider about personal risk factors and treatment options is an important step.
Some risk factors for AFib cannot be changed, while others can. Family history may play a role, and people with a close family member who has AFib may have a higher chance of developing it themselves. Other risk factors can often be managed. These include high blood pressure, thyroid or other metabolic conditions, and alcohol use. Research is also continuing to explore the relationship between cannabis use and atrial arrhythmias, including AFib.
Patients can take meaningful steps to support heart rhythm health. Keeping blood pressure well controlled, following up regularly with a provider, taking medications as prescribed, asking questions about symptoms, and discussing alcohol or cannabis use honestly with the care team can all help guide safer, more personalized care.
One of the strengths of rural health care is the relationship patients build with the people who care for them. For patients with AFib, that ongoing connection can make a real difference. Regular check-ins, education, medication support, and timely referrals can help patients feel more confident managing their heart rhythm health.
By combining local care with access to additional resources when needed, rural communities can help patients stay healthier and more connected.