High blood pressure is a common medical condition, but how much do you really know about it? Read on to learn more.
Does your heartbeat ever feel irregular? Skip a few beats? Feel like it’s flip-flopping or quivering? Atrial Fibrillation is a potentially deadly problem, but one you likely haven’t heard about and may not realize exists. September is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) month, so if those symptoms sound familiar, read on to learn something that could save your life. They may be signs of AFib.
Atrial Fibrillation is a quivering or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. According to the American Heart Association, about 2.7 million Americans are living with AFib; it’s the most common type of arrhythmia in the U.S. Some people with AFib experience nausea or light-headedness. Others report feeling weak, having a fast heartbeat or feeling short of breath. During an episode of atrial fibrillation, the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat irregularly (quiver) instead of beating effectively to move blood into the ventricles.
The problem with AFib is that it may cause a blood clot to break off, which can then enter the bloodstream and cause a stroke. AFib doubles the risk of heart-related death and increases your chance of a stroke by five times. If you have any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
However, AFib may not present with symptoms, which is why it’s essential to visit your doctor each year for a physical.
A family history of the condition increases the risk of developing AFib. You’re also at a higher risk if you have high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, thyroid problems, major surgery, lung disease, or kidney disease. Other factors include previous stroke, obesity, and smoking.
Preventing AFib is the same as preventing many other health problems, which is eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise as well as maintaining a healthy weight. If you have lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other health conditions, it’s critical to treat those to help prevent AFib.
While there is no cure for the condition, people with AFib can work with their doctors to restore a normal rhythm and prevent blood clots.
If you feel concerned based on the list of symptoms, make an appointment today with one of our Generations Family Practice doctors to learn more.
You Might Also Enjoy...
High blood pressure is a common medical condition, but how much do you really know about it? Read on to learn more.
Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can have life-threatening complications. The good news is that there are numerous lifestyle changes you can make to manage and mitigate the effects of diabetes. Read on to learn more.
Taking care of yourself when you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, can be challenging. That’s where chronic care management comes in. Read on to learn how you can get the help you need to live well.
Making the transition from a hospital, nursing home, or inpatient center to home can be challenging. An integrated care model called transitional care management can help make the process go smoothly. Read on to learn more.
Annual physical exams provide an opportunity for you and your health care provider to track and evaluate your overall health regardless of whether you’re healthy or sick. The appointment includes a physical exam and screenings. Read on.
Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can affect nearly every system in the body. Managing diabetes is crucial to living well, and knowing the warning signs is key to getting prompt treatment. Read on to learn more.