Health

Atrial Fibrillation: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Methods

Published

4 years ago

June 5, 2021

Atrial fibrillation or AF is a condition associated with irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia. It occurs due to a disturbance in the electric signals of your heart. It affects many people across the globe and underlying conditions are the main predisposing factors. Dr. Rishin Shah treats atrial fibrillation in Frisco using advanced procedures and techniques. Before seeking treatment, here is everything you need to know about atrial fibrillation.

Overview

Atrial fibrillation affects the top chambers of your heart, also known as the atria. There are some other types of arrhythmia known as ventricles that affect the lower chambers. However, these are more serious than atrial fibrillation.

The atria are the gateway to the heart and use electric signals to pump blood. The ventricles are the exits and where the blood passes for supply to the other body parts.

With Atrial fibrillation, the electric signals are disorganized, irregular, rapid, and affect your heart’s efficiency. Subsequently, your heart beats very fast, at approximately 150beats/second.

Failure to seek treatment can have devastating effects on your quality of life. However, with the right treatment, you can lead an active life.

Complications of atrial fibrillation

Lack of treatment for atrial fibrillation can increase your risk of developing a heart attack or stroke. Your risk increases threefold due to the rapid and chaotic contraction of the atria. Instead of your heart beating normally, the atrial becomes agitated and fails to circulate blood normally.

Blood collects in the small tissues surrounding the heart and clots can form from the stagnant blood. Eventually, the clot finds its way to the brain, interrupts blood circulation, and causes a stroke.

The risk of atrial fibrillation occurs more as you grow old, people above 40 years are likely to suffer from this condition. Also, if there is a history of high blood pressure, heart attacks, and diabetes, then there is an increased risk of developing this condition.

Studies reveal that the administration of blood thinners can significantly reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of heart failure where the heart fails to circulate blood to the body as it should. With time the heart weakens and eventually fails to function.

Causes of atrial fibrillation

The main risk factor is arterial hypertension, heart failure, and coronary artery disease that causes a heart attack. Also, coronary bypass surgery complications can cause this condition. Others are cardiomyopathy, pericarditis, or the inflammation of the heart and damage to heart valves.

You can also get this condition through hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid gland, and pulmonary embolism. Some factors such as alcohol consumption, unhealthy weight, and sleep apnea are easy to manage.

Diagnostic and treatment

Your doctor examines your medical history and the risk factors before recommending treatment. Treatment involves managing the risk factor, your specialist may apply some interventions to control the irregular heartbeat. Dr. Rishin Shah may prescribe medication to slow down the heart rate and perform a catheter ablation to prevent a recurrence.

People with atrial fibrillation lead a normal life with treatment and control. Contact Dr. Rishin Shah at Prime Heart and Vascular for assessment and treatment.

Health

Best Times to Take Whey Protein Isolate for Optimal Results

Published

3 days ago

November 16, 2025

Michelle Langton

For anyone looking to build muscle, recover faster, or simply improve their overall nutrition, timing can make a big difference when it comes to protein intake. Whey protein isolate is one of the most efficient and bioavailable sources of protein available — easily absorbed by the body and ideal for supporting recovery and growth. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, knowing the best times to take it can help you make the most of its benefits. If you’re looking for a high-quality option, explore premium whey protein isolate in Australia to fuel your results.

1. Post-Workout: The Prime Time for Recovery

The period immediately after your workout is arguably the best time to consume whey protein isolate. During exercise, your muscles experience micro-tears and deplete their glycogen stores. Consuming whey protein isolate within 30 minutes post-training provides your body with fast-digesting amino acids, which help repair muscle tissue and stimulate protein synthesis.

Pairing your shake with a source of carbohydrates can further enhance recovery by replenishing glycogen stores and promoting better nutrient absorption.

2. First Thing in the Morning

After several hours of sleep, your body wakes up in a fasted state. Consuming whey protein isolate in the morning helps prevent muscle breakdown and kickstarts your metabolism for the day. It’s particularly useful if you don’t have time for a full breakfast or if you train early in the morning.

This quick, easily digestible protein gives your muscles a readily available source of amino acids to maintain muscle mass and energy levels throughout the morning.

3. Between Meals to Support Protein Intake

If you struggle to meet your daily protein goals through food alone, taking whey protein isolate between meals is a simple way to boost your intake. This is especially beneficial for those aiming to build lean muscle or lose fat while maintaining muscle mass.

A mid-morning or mid-afternoon shake helps stabilise blood sugar levels and reduces the temptation to reach for less nutritious snacks.

4. Before Bed (When Needed)

While casein protein is traditionally recommended for nighttime use due to its slow digestion, whey protein isolate can also be beneficial before bed in certain cases — particularly for those who train late in the evening or need additional daily protein intake.

Although it digests quickly, it still provides your muscles with amino acids to support repair and recovery during the early stages of sleep.

Optimising Your Protein Strategy

Ultimately, the best time to take whey protein isolate depends on your fitness goals, training schedule, and dietary habits. The most important thing is to ensure you’re consistently meeting your total daily protein needs. Whey protein isolate’s versatility makes it easy to integrate into your lifestyle — from breakfast smoothies to post-workout shakes.