Post-Stroke Heart Rhythm Monitoring

Background: Cardiac arrhythmias are particularly frequent during the acute phase of stroke. Atrial fibrillation is strongly associated with an increased incidence of stroke and higher mortality. The diagnosis of post-stroke arrhythmias has important preventive and therapeutic implications. Telemetric monitoring helps in the diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Arrhythmias pre- and post-stroke also have a significant effect on cardiovascular mortality. Objective: To monitor post-stroke heart rhythm. Objective: To monitor post-stroke heart rhythm. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data from 100 consecutive patients with acute stroke episodes between January 2023 and June 2024. The WebCardio device monitored each patient’s cardiac rhythm for 72 hours. The consultant cardiologist verified the findings with my assistance. The data was collected and tabulated. Results: The study showed that new-onset atrial fibrillation was seen in 11% of patients, and overall, 14% of the patients had significant atrial fibrillation burden. Excessive supraventricular ectopic activity was found in 11% of the patients, and excessive ventricular ectopic activity was found in 6% of the patients. Conclusion: New-onset atrial fibrillation is highly prevalent in stroke patients. These patients require early and appropriate initiation of therapeutic anticoagulation. Patients with other arrythmias need further evaluation for ischemia and other etiology for the same and appropriate treatment. Keywords: Stroke; Atrial Fibrillation; Excessive Supraventricular Ectopic Activity; Ischemic Stroke; Holter Monitoring