Don’t Ignore Irregular Heartbeat
(NewsUSA) Atrial fibrillation (also called AFib) is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. In fact, AFib makes you up to five times more likely to have a stroke. While most strokes caused by AFib could be prevented with effective treatment, only about half of AFib patients receive proper therapy.
There are currently 5.2 million people in the U.S. living with AFib, and that number is expected to more than double over the next ten years. While anyone can develop AFib at any age, the greatest risk is among individuals who are over age 50 years, those with a family history of AFib, smokers, those with high blood pressure, and individuals diagnosed with other heart diseases. Although AFib is less prevalent in the Black and Latino populations, compared to white individuals, anyone with AFib has a higher risk of AFib-related death if they have high blood pressure or heart failure.
The most common AFib symptom is a fluttering heartbeat, but many individuals do not experience any symptoms prior to being diagnosed. It is important for anyone at risk for AFib to speak to their doctors about any unusual sensations they are experiencing regarding their heartbeat. Symptoms to also watch for include shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, faintness, sweating, and chest pressure.
Up to 84 percent of strokes caused by AFib are preventable if patients receive early, effective treatment. The American Stroke Association stresses the importance of having conversations with your doctor about how to stay healthy. Visit www.MyFibexperience.org for a downloadable symptom tracker and portal where individuals can share their stories and learn from the experiences of others who have AFib.
