Individuals with atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition involving a fast, irregular heart rhythm, have three to five times greater risk of stroke and are twice as likely to die from one.
"Most people know that high blood pressure puts them at risk for stroke, however few realize that atrial fibrillation also puts them at risk," says Jackie Zalnasky, vice-president of health promotion at the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba.
It is estimated that up to 15 per cent of all strokes are caused by AF. This risk increases with age, so that after age 60, one-third of all strokes are caused by this condition.
AF is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, affecting about 250,000 Canadians. It is rare in people under 40, but its occurrence increases with age. From 55 on, the incidence of AF doubles with each decade of life.
The chances of developing AF increases with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and underlying heart disease.
"Saving a life can be as simple as checking a pulse. If your pulse is fast and your heartbeat is irregular, ask your doctor to check for atrial fibrillation," Zalnasky says.
Some people with atrial fibrillation may have no symptoms and feel perfectly fine, while others may experience various symptoms, including:
* Irregular and fast heartbeat (atrial fibrillation can cause the heart to beat very fast, sometimes more than 150 beats per minute).
* Heart palpitations or a rapid thumping in the chest.
* Chest discomfort, chest pain or pressure.
* Shortness of breath, particularly with exertion or anxiety.
* Fatigue.
* Dizziness, sweating, or nausea.
* Lightheadedness or fainting.
"Atrial fibrillation can be difficult to diagnose because some people display no symptoms or their symptoms are inconsistent. If your heart occasionally flutters or periodically beats faster, do something about it. Get it checked out by your doctor," Zalnasky says.
"If you ignore it or dismiss it as a passing discomfort, it could turn into something more serious or even life-threatening over time."
For those diagnosed with AF, there are treatments available that can reduce their risk of stroke by as much as 80 per cent.
"It is important for people with atrial fibrillation to talk to their doctor about their unique risk factors for stroke and determine a treatment plan that is best for them," Zalnasky said.
Stroke is a medical emergency. AF patients are at greater risk for stroke making it especially important to know how to recognize and react to the sudden warning signs of stroke, which are:
* Weakness -- Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
* Trouble speaking -- Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
* Vision problems -- Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
* Headache -- Sudden severe and unusual headache.
* Dizziness -- Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Manitobans can help to reduce their risk of developing AF and related diseases such as heart disease and stroke by following the five steps to healthy living:
* Know and control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
* Be smoke-free.
* Make healthy food choices that are lower in fat and sodium, and higher in fibre.
* Be physically active.
* Reduce or manage stress.
Any lifestyle changes that lower blood pressure (such as maintaining a healthy weight) are likely to reduce the chances of developing AF.
For more on atrial fibrillation, visit heartandstroke.mb.ca.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, a volunteer-based health charity leads in eliminating heart disease and stroke and reducing their impact through the advancement of research and its application, the promotion of healthy living and advocacy.
» Submitted
Republished from the Brandon Sun print edition June 13, 2011 A3
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