Lionel Richie Undergoes Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation, Cancels Concerts
The singer's representatives confirmed he had a common procedure for an irregular heartbeat and will take time off.
Lionel Richie has been hospitalized for a common procedure to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke. Representatives for the Grammy-winning artist announced the procedure, stating that Richie "is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon."
As a result of the procedure, Richie has canceled upcoming concert dates with Earth, Wind & Fire in San Francisco, Chicago, and Columbus, Ohio. His Las Vegas residency at the Encore Theater, scheduled to begin October 14, is still expected to proceed.
Atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia, is characterized by the heart's upper chambers beating out of sync with the lower chambers due to faulty electrical signals. This can prevent the atria from fully contracting, leading to blood pooling and potential clot formation. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, AFib affects an estimated 10.5 million Americans.
Symptoms can include palpitations, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. While not typically life-threatening, AFib can weaken the heart over time and requires medical management. Dr. Srinivas Prasad, an interventional cardiologist at Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital, noted that AFib can be serious and even deadly due to its association with stroke, a leading cause of death and disability.
Age is a significant risk factor, particularly for individuals over 65; Richie is 77. Other contributing factors include family history, alcohol and drug use, certain competitive sports, and stressful situations.
Treatment for AFib often begins with blood-thinning medication to prevent clots and other drugs to control heart rate. If these are insufficient, procedures like electrical cardioversion or ablation may be employed. Ablation, which Richie reportedly underwent, involves mapping the heart's electrical signals to identify and address abnormal rhythms. A catheter is used to create scar tissue in the heart, which can then block faulty signals.
Dr. Glenn Hirsch, Chief of Cardiology at National Jewish Health, described ablation as a common and minimally invasive procedure that has improved significantly over the past two decades. He stated that for suitable patients, it may prevent recurrence. While not typically an emergency, ablation can be scheduled on short notice if symptoms are disruptive.
This is not the first health incident for Richie this year. In June, he experienced dizziness and felt unwell during a performance, leading to hospitalization. In August, he voluntarily admitted himself to the ICU for cardiac testing.
Following an ablation, patients can usually go home the same day and resume work within a week, though strenuous activity and heavy lifting are advised against for the first week due to the leg incision. Some chest pain or palpitations may occur in the first month as the heart heals. Doctors indicated that Richie's current active lifestyle should facilitate a recovery similar to that of a younger patient.