This blog will deal with the first three of six important things you should know about AFib. These are essential points you should keep in mind whether or not you have afib. It is always possible that a family member or a friend may have afib, and these facts could help you or them live a fuller, healthier life. Of course, any program to manage afib should be reviewed with a physician trained in managing afib such as Dr. Shanti Bansal at Atrial Fibrillation Centers Of America. Only someone with the knowledge and experience of Dr. Bansal can correctly develop and manage your AFIB treatment program.
The first three of these six important things about Afib are presented below. These and the three discussed in the next blog, give some general guidelines for those who may have or suspect they have afib.
1. Afib should be diagnosed by a physician using tests such as an EKG or a monitor you wear – don’t self-diagnose.
It’s vital that a doctor evaluates your condition and determine whether or not you have AFib. Because of the complex nature of afib and other related arrhythmias, careful diagnosis is essential. Only after a proper diagnosis is made can an appropriate treatment plan be developed.
2. There is a higher risk of developing afib as you age. While afib can occur at any age, the risk of afib increase as a person ages. Related symptoms such as elevated blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and obesity can
contribute to the onset of afib. Often younger individuals with afib have associated heart or other conditions that contribute to the afib’s development.
3. Stroke risk is higher with afib than without. Thirty-five percent of afib patients will suffer a stroke sometime in their lifetimes.
Individuals with afib have a five times higher risk of having a stroke than those without afib. Because of this stroke risk, management is a crucial ingredient in treating and controlling afib. Doctors, such as those at Arrhythmia Center of American, can evaluate whether or not you have afib. If you are at an increased risk for a stroke, our doctors can prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.
Afib can be serious, and if you believe you may be at risk, then you should make an appointment at Atrial Fibrillation Centers Of America for a consultation. A person should not self-diagnose afib due to the complex nature of arrhythmia and the serious nature of stroke risks. At Atrial Fibrillation Centers Of America, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of afib in people of all ages. If you believe you may be at risk for afib, you should schedule an appointment with one of our professional staff. They can answer your questions, so call now, 832-478-5067.