Many women experience heart flutters or palpitations during menopause, and usually they are nothing to worry about. But there’s a common condition that is affecting a lot more postmenopausal women than ever before, and many of them don’t even realize they have it.

In the latest episode of “Age Better” podcast, I dive into a vital topic that every woman should be aware of: Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). My esteemed guest, Dr. Nisha Parikh, brings her extensive expertise in cardiovascular medicine and women’s health to discuss this common yet often overlooked heart condition, focusing particularly on its impact on postmenopausal women.

Here’s a summary of what we discussed:

What is AFib?

AFib is an electrical disorder of the heart characterized by irregular heartbeats originating from the left atrium. This condition not only disrupts the heart’s normal rhythm but can also lead to severe complications like stroke and heart failure if left untreated.

Why It Often Goes Unnoticed
One of the most concerning aspects of AFib is its subtlety in presentation, especially in women. Symptoms such as fatigue or weakness are frequently dismissed as part of aging or menopause, leading to a significant number of undiagnosed cases. Dr. Parikh emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs and the necessity for women to take proactive steps towards diagnosis and management.

The Role of Psychological and Social Stressors
Dr. Parikh highlights how factors like sleep deprivation and stress can significantly increase the risk of developing AFib in postmenopausal women. Addressing these elements is crucial in managing and preventing this condition, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to health that includes mental well-being.

Advanced Treatment Options
Our discussion also covers the latest advancements in the treatment of AFib, including heart rate and rhythm control, and the strategic use of blood thinners for stroke prevention. Innovations such as cardioversion and catheter ablation are discussed, alongside emerging research on the potential use of metformin and magnesium in AFib treatment.

The Importance of Lifestyle Changes and Technology
Dr. Parikh advises on the critical role of lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a heart-healthy diet and reducing alcohol intake, which can help prevent AFib. Additionally, she sheds light on the benefits of wearable devices like the Apple Watch for monitoring heart rhythms, which can be a game-changer in early detection and ongoing management of AFib. In fact, the FDA recently approved the Apple watch for detecting and monitoring AFib.

Why You Should Listen to this Episode
This episode is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice for women navigating midlife.

Understanding AFib and its implications is crucial for maintaining heart health and preventing potentially life-threatening complications. Dr. Parikh’s expertise provides listeners with the tools they need to advocate for their health effectively.

If you’re a woman in midlife, or if you care about someone who is, tuning into this episode could provide you with life-saving knowledge and empower you to take control of your heart health.

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