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WHAT IS AFIB?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an abnormality of the rhythm of the
heart. Although AFib itself is not dangerous, it is a serious
medical condition that needs to be managed because it
significantly raises your risk for a stroke or heart attack.
The abnormal heart rhythm associated with AFib means
blood does not pump through the heart as it should, causing
it to pool in the atria where it can form a clot. If a clot breaks
free and blocks a blood vessel to the brain, you may have a
stroke. A clot in the heart can cause a heart attack.
People with AFib are five times more likely
to have a stroke and three times more
likely to have a heart attack.
If you have AFib, you are not alone. The U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) estimates that more than three million
Americans have AFib. Your risk of AFib increases with age.
AFIB SYMPTOMS
The most common symptoms of AFib are a fluttering heart
and fatigue. You may also feel dizzy, anxious, have shortness
of breath, or even feel chest pain or pressure. Some people
have no symptoms at all (called Silent AFib). Repeated
incidents of AFib can lead to irreversible heart rhythm
abnormalities. Although AFib sometimes goes away on its
own, it generally requires treatment.
If you have any questions about AFib,
or experience symptoms that may indicate
AFib, talk to your physician. Early treatment
for AFib can prevent a debilitating stroke or
heart attack.
RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE
n age n family history n being female
n diabetes n congestive heart failure n a prior stroke
n systolic blood pressure greater than 120
TREATMENT OVERVIEW
There are many treatments for AFib, including medications,
surgery and other nonsurgical procedures. The primary goal
of treatment is to reduce your risk of stroke by preventing blood
clots. Depending on your symptoms and the severity of AFib,
your physician may also recommend treatments to restore your
heart rate or heart rhythm.
Spirit of Women affiliated hospitals offer local cardiac resources. To
find your nearest Spirit of Women or HeartCaring affiliated hospital,
go to pages 12-13.
T O R E D U C E Y O U R R I S K
MANAGING AFIB
H E A R T H E A L T H
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