Lowering Your Risk of AFib After Heart Surgery

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) describes an irregular heartbeat, where your heart may feel like it’s fluttering or beating erratically. AFib can develop from underlying health conditions and lifestyle habits. 

An irregular or erratic heartbeat is also a common side effect of heart surgery, affecting as many as 55% of people during their postsurgical recovery.

Chinatown Cardiology, with four offices in New York City, offers advanced diagnostic testing in-office to diagnose the cause of atrial fibrillation. Our skilled cardiologists also provide interventional cardiac procedures to prevent AFib complications.

Below, our experts outline strategies to support your heart health during your postsurgical recovery and beyond.

The link between heart surgery and AFib

AFib results from dysfunction in your heart’s electrical system. The human heart typically beats 60-100 times per minute.

People with AFib experience episodes of chaotic electrical pulses that disrupt their heart’s natural rhythm, affecting how much blood it pumps out to the rest of the body.

Following heart surgery, inflammation in the chest tissues can linger for several weeks. This inflammation can disrupt the electrical activity in the heart. In severe cases, AFib can lead to chest pain, persistent fatigue, and recurrent fluttering in your chest.

4 strategies to lower your risk of postsurgical atrial fibrillation

There are several ways to lower your risk of AFib after heart surgery. Here are four that our heart experts recommend. The key: You need to implement these strategies before your surgical procedure.

1. Quit smoking

Smoking significantly increases AFib risks. This habit also makes you more susceptible to other complications that can arise during or after surgery.

Quitting now is essential for your long-term cardiovascular health and overall wellness. Ask our team for smoking cessation resources if you need help.

2. Adopt a heart-healthy diet

Our cardiologists offer personalized recommendations for a heart-healthy diet that limits cholesterol, sodium, processed foods, and alcohol.

A rule of thumb is to eat more fresh, plant-based foods such as vegetables, nuts, and legumes to support healthy cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose (sugar) levels.

3. Manage stress

Stress is a catalyst for AFib and other heart problems. If you experience chronic stress or recurrent episodes of anxiety, speak with your primary care physician about managing these issues.

Our team can refer you to a professional therapist who can share stress management techniques and help you navigate mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.

4. Treat other medical issues

If you have uncontrolled diabetes or low iron levels in your blood (anemia) before surgery, you’re more likely to develop AFib after your procedure. If you already have a diagnosis, be consistent with your treatment plan and take medications as directed by your physician.

Our skilled cardiologists offer comprehensive testing, including electrocardiograms (EKGs) and echocardiograms, to identify underlying health issues that could cause AFib and other postsurgical complications. 

We schedule these tests in advance of surgery to ensure you’re as healthy as possible going into your procedure.

Call the Chinatown Cardiology office near you today to schedule a cardiac evaluation for AFib symptoms, or request a consultation online.