Atrial fibrillation often goes unnoticed, yet it can increase stroke risk up to fivefold.
Many people assume that stroke is solely linked to high cholesterol or hypertension. In reality, certain heart rhythm disorders, particularly atrial fibrillation, can also be a significant cause. Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat rapidly and irregularly.
Under normal circumstances, the heart’s rhythm is regulated by a single natural electrical centre known as the sinoatrial (SA) node. In atrial fibrillation, however, electrical impulses arise from multiple points within the atria, causing the heartbeat to become chaotic and uncoordinated. As a result, blood flow becomes inefficient, and some blood may pool in a small pouch in the left atrium called the Left Atrial Appendage (LAA). This can lead to the formation of blood clots, which may travel to the brain and cause a cardioembolic ischaemic stroke.
So who is most at risk? According to dr Rerdin Julario, Sp.JP(K), at Mayapada Hospital Surabaya, “Atrial fibrillation is more commonly found in older adults, particularly those over the age of 65. The risk also increases in individuals with a history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol or caffeine. People with atrial fibrillation have an approximately fivefold higher risk of stroke compared to those with a normal heart rhythm.”
However, the risk of complications can be significantly reduced if atrial fibrillation is detected early. “Heart examinations are recommended if symptoms such as an irregular heartbeat, fatigue, shortness of breath or light-headedness occur. Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medication, such as warfarin, to prevent blood clot formation. For patients with a high risk of bleeding or those unsuitable for long-term medication, a Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Closure procedure may be considered as an alternative for stroke prevention,” Dr Rerdin explained.
Managing risk factors also plays a vital role. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, and managing stress can all help reduce the likelihood of complications. Routine blood pressure monitoring and periodic electrocardiogram (ECG) tests are equally important in lowering stroke risk.
Recognising the importance of comprehensive atrial fibrillation management and complication prevention, Mayapada Hospital Surabaya (MHSB) has established its Heart & Vascular Centre as an integrated cardiac service, offering a collaborative and comprehensive approach from prevention and diagnosis to advanced treatment and rehabilitation.
The service is built upon three main pillars. Advanced Treatment addresses vascular disorders, arrhythmia and structural heart conditions — such as valvular heart disease — through advanced procedures including Coronary Angiography (CAG), Complex Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), and the use of Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVAD). Emergency Excellence provides 24/7 cardiac emergency care in accordance with international protocol standards, supported by on-site specialist and subspecialist doctors accessible via the call centre at 150990 or the Emergency Call button on MyCare, alongside a dedicated Chest Pain Unit for early detection. Team-Based Management ensures that every clinical decision is made collaboratively through a Cardiac Board comprising cardiologists, cardiothoracic and cardiovascular surgeons, cardiovascular anaesthesiologists and paediatric cardiologists.
This multidisciplinary approach enables the team to determine the most appropriate intervention — from CAG and PCI (including Complex PCI), to the management of heart valve and vascular disorders, heart rhythm disturbances, and advanced heart failure therapy supported by LVAD technology.
The service also includes a dedicated Cardiac Advisor who supports patients and their families from diagnosis and treatment planning through to recovery, ensuring that each medical decision is clearly understood and that care is delivered seamlessly.
The Heart & Vascular Centre began operations in February 2026 on Level 8 of MHSB.
Further information on heart health from Mayapada Hospital’s doctors is available through the MyCare application under the Health Articles & Tips feature. Users can also monitor their wellbeing via the Personal Health feature, which tracks heart rate, steps taken, calories burned and Body Mass Index (BMI).