Right at the heart of the matter
Those living with an irregular heart beat will have a chance to quiz a cardiologist about it.
Cardiologist electrophysiologist Dr Daniel Garofalo said atrial fibrillation (AF) was strongly associated with age. It is estimated 46,000 Kiwis live with AF, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing forms of heart disease.
‘‘It is a rhythm disorder where the heart’s regular rhythm controlled by the natural pacemaker goes into a more irregular, erratic rhythm.
‘‘It can give no symptoms at all or it can be very debilitating for people suffering from it.’’
An information session for people living with atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that increases the risk of stroke, will be held on Friday June 8.
Garofalo said people diagnosed with the condition were curious about the prognosis and treatment options. Symptoms could include palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness, decreased exercise tolerance and fatigue.
Treatment included medication, ablation procedures to scar the heart tissue and prevent incorrect electrical signals and blood thinners to prevent stroke.
‘‘It is a condition that is worth addressing and treating, even if it is not symptomatic.’’
Heart health advocate Averil West said living with heart disease or recovering from a heart event could be lonely and challenging for people.
‘‘We want to reach out to bring people living with atrial fibrillation and their families together in a warm, supportive environment that allows them to meet, learn and share their experiences.’’
Garofalo will discuss the condition, treatments for AF and lifestyle modifications. There will be an opportunity to ask questions.
The Heart Foundation living with atrial fibrillation information session will take place at 10.30am on Friday June 8.
For more information or to register, contact Averil on 03 545 7112, or email averilw@heartfoundation.org.nz. There is no cost to attend.