ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
By Dr. Jacqueline Eubany
This episode of Big Blend Radio’s HEART HEALTHY LIVING WITH DR JACKIE Podcast observes National Atrial Fibrillation Month (September). Often called AFib or AF, which is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, Atrial Fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that can increase your risk for stroke.
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that can increase your risk for stroke.
Symptoms associated with it include fast heartbeat, difficulty catching your breath, chest pain, light-headedness and dizziness. Some people may have no symptoms at all. It is very important to see your doctor when you experience any of these symptoms. Your doctor will order some tests to try to make the diagnosis and then treat you accordingly.
You may have to take a blood thinner to reduce your risk for stroke. Sometimes, electronic devices like watches that monitor heart rate, can detect an irregular heartbeat. If your device detects this, bring this information to your doctor for a more accurate diagnosis. More recent studies have suggested that losing weight can decrease your risk for atrial fibrillation.
To that end I recommend increasing your physical activity by taking walks in your neighborhood, or exploring local parks and eating a heart healthy diet.
Based in Orange County, Southern California, Dr. Jackie is a board certified cardiologist and electrophysiologist, and author of the best-selling book “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story.” www.WomenandHeartDiseaseBook.com
