Health Screening for Stroke/Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is usually a chronic heart condition that, if left untreated, can lead to a stroke. More than 2.2 million Americans have this condition — approximately one in 25 people over the age of 60 and one in 10 people older than 80 — according to the American Heart Association (2010).
Many people with atrial fibrillation don't realize that they have it, as the condition often causes no symptoms. If you're in a high-risk category, consider medical screening for atrial fibrillation.
If you know you have this condition, you may be able to treat it before it leads to a stroke. Atrial fibrillation causes approximately 15 to 20 percent of all strokes (roughly 75,000 per year), and this condition is associated with a 50 to 90 percent increase in risk of death, as reported by the American Heart Association (2010).

What is Stroke/Atrial Fibrillation?

A stroke occurs when the brain's blood supply is interrupted, depriving the brain of oxygen necessary for survival. A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, since brain cells begin to die within minutes. Strokes can lead to long-lasting complications, such as paralysis or memory loss, due to brain damage. In many cases, they are fatal.
Atrial fibrillation is a common cause of strokes — in fact, it increases the risk of stroke fivefold. Also known as an irregular heartbeat or "a-fib," atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the upper chambers of the heart (known as the "atria") beat to a different, faster rhythm than the lower chambers (known as the "ventricles"). Atrial fibrillation means that the heart can't pump blood effectively, so it's allowed to pool and clot. If a blood clot breaks off and becomes lodged in an artery leading to the brain, blood supply to the brain is slowed and a stroke may occur.

Who is at Risk for Stroke/Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation risk increases with age. People age 40 and older have a higher risk for stroke and atrial fibrillation than younger people. Additional risk factors include:
  • A history of chronic lung disease
  • Excessive consumption of caffeine or other stimulants
  • Heart disease or a history of heart attacks/heart surgeries
  • High blood pressure, even if you're taking medication
  • Overactive thyroid
  • Periods of extreme stress or fatigue
  • Smoking or a long history of smoking.

How Does Stroke/Atrial Fibrillation Screening Work?

Medical screening tests for atrial fibrillation often involve electrocardiography (EKG or ECG) technology, which records the heart's electrical activity. During this non-invasive, painless procedure, a technician applies EKG electrodes to your wrists and ankles to monitor your heart's activity. To facilitate this test, wear a short-sleeve shirt that's open at the collar when you go to your screening appointment.
If the technician finds an irregular or fast heartbeat, you may discuss preventative and treatment options with your doctor.

Preventing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

If you're at risk for stroke and atrial fibrillation, you can take steps to minimize your risk. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages can trigger atrial fibrillation, so reduce or eliminate your consumption of these. Also, avoid over-the-counter medications that contain pseudoephredrine, which can contribute to an irregular heartbeat. Talk to your doctor about other medications to avoid.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Gastrointestinal Defects

Birth defects, also known as "congenital abnormalities," are structural defects in some part or system of the body that can affect the body's function. These congenital defects occur during fetal development, and are present in a baby from birth. Like other complex body systems, the gastrointestinal system (or digestive system), responsible for digestion and extracting nutrients from food, is vulnerable to congenital defects during its development. Healthy Gastrointestinal Tract Function The gastrointestinal system is made up of several organs, including the: Mouth Esophagus Stomach Small intestine: Duodenum, jejunum and ileum Large intestine: Cecum, colon, rectum and anus. In healthy people, food enters the mouth, and is chewed and swallowed, passing through the esophagus to the stomach. The stomach breaks down the food, then passes it into the intestines, where it is digested further, and particles from the food can be absorbed. Waste is stored in the r
Keep reading

Hypersomnia: An Overview

Hypersomnia is a sleep disorder that is characterized by sleeping too much, experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness or a combination of the two. Hypersomnia is not the same as feeling tired due to poor quality sleep or not getting enough sleep. Often, people with hypersomnia fall asleep suddenly throughout the day, a symptom the condition shares with narcolepsy. Symptoms of Hypersomnia Symptoms of hypersomnia often develop in adolescence or early adulthood. People with hypersomnia may sleep for up to 12 hours at a time, but still wake up feeling tired. Individuals may struggle to wake up after deep sleep and seem disoriented and confused. Hypersomnia often develops gradually, making it difficult for people to realize they are sleeping too much. Signs associated with hypersomnia include: Anxiety Headaches Irritation Loss of appetite Low energy levels Memory problems "Nap attacks" during the day Restlessness Sleeping too much Slow speech Slow thought proce
Keep reading

Irritable Bowel Disease Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a very common disorder that affects the functioning of the bowel. Although the severity of the condition (also occasionally called  spastic colon ) can vary considerably from one patient to another, typical characteristics include changes in bowel habits ranging from diarrhea to constipation, cramp-like pains, bloating and a feeling of "gassiness." For some sufferers, IBS is little more than a minor inconvenience; for others it can be totally disabling. In extreme cases, the patient is unable to travel, function in the workplace or enjoy socializing. Common Misconceptions Irritable bowel syndrome is not . . . an imaginary disease.  IBS has biological causes and biological symptoms and is certainly not a condition that is "all in your mind. " caused by other diseases  such as gallstones or ulcers. an infection , although it can sometimes be triggered by a bout of gastroenteritis or similar digestive system disorders. hereditary . a precursor to c
Keep reading