FREQUENCY OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has many preventable causes; of which atrial

fibrillation (AF) is a significant issue. Varying frequencies of AF among stroke patients have

been reported. The discrepancy is majorly due to hindrances in detection of intermittent and

silent AF. This study aimed to determine the frequency of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) in patients

presenting with acute ischemic stroke. Objective: To determine the frequency of atrial

fibrillation in patients with acute ischemic stroke visiting peoples medical college and hospital

(PMCH), Nawabshah. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in the

Department of General Medicine, (Unit III) at Peoples Medical College and Hospital,

Nawabshah. Study duration was from 4

th Aug 2020 to 4th Feb 2021. All patients with acute

ischemic stroke were included. Sociodemogrpahic profile was documented. Occurrence of

atrial fibrillation was recorded on electrocardiogram was done ill these patients to reach the

outcome i.e. frequency of AF. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS v.22. Result: Of

183 ischemic stroke patients, there were 104 (56.8%) males and 79 (43.2%) females. Their

mean age (years) was 50.19 ± 7.33. Atrial fibrillation was seen in 45 (24.6%) patients. Most

AF patients were males, older in age and had a statistically significant family history of AIS.

Conclusion: This study concludes that AF patients are a high-risk group for developing acute

ischemic stroke episodes. The incidence is higher in male gender, older population, and

individuals with family history of ischemic stroke.