AFib is the most common type of heart rhythm condition. It feels like a fluttering or racing heart, or like your heart skips a beat. When the heart is in AFib, blood can become static and form a clot that can travel to the brain, causing a stroke. In fact, AFib increases the risk of stroke by 5X.

Be heart smart; learn more about AFib, including the causes, symptoms and treatment, as well as how to manage it and reduce your risk of stroke.

What Causes AFib?

The main cause of AFib remains unknown. However, some conditions that may negatively affect your heart health and eventually lead to AFib are as follows:

• Congestive heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Heart valve disease
• High blood pressure
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
• Overactive thyroid gland
• Pericarditis (inflammation of the covering of the heart)
• Thyroid disease

Heart surgery, taking certain medications and binge drinking may also lead to AFib.

What Are the Symptoms of AFib?

• Quivering or fluttering heartbeat
• Irregular heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Fainting or confusion
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating

What Are the Treatment Options for AFib?

Thankfully, many people can manage AFib with medication, and keeping regular doctor appointments helps your doctor know when you may need a change in dosage or medication. Even with medication, you may have triggers that cause an episode. Triggers may include:

• Infections or physical illness
• Emotional stress – positive or negative
• Hormones (in women)
• Interactions with over-the-counter medications
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Caffeine
• Dehydration

Know the Signs of Stroke

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with AFib, it’s pivotal that you learn the symptoms of stroke.

BE FAST is a good way to recognize the symptoms of a stroke, and it’s a reminder to get help quickly. Every minute counts when it comes to having a better outcome and recovery from a stroke. Here’s how to recognize symptoms of a stroke for yourself or someone close to you:

B – Balance – Is there a loss of balance, coordination or trouble walking?
E – Eyes – Is it difficult to see in one or both eyes?

F – Face – When the person smiles, does one side of the face droop?
A – Arms – Does one arm drift down when the person raises both arms?
S – Speech – Is speech strange or slurred?
T – Time – Don’t wait to call 9-1-1 if you see any of the above signs.

Five Ways To Maintain or Improve Your Quality of Life With AFib

1. Talk with your doctor about his or her opinion of your stroke risk.
2. Take medicine as prescribed.
3. Ask your doctor about what type of exercise is best for you – then do it.
4. Eat a heart-healthy diet that is low in fat and salt.
5. Pay attention to and manage other health conditions such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Know that you’re not alone. Finding support for your condition and staying connected with people in your life can help you keep a positive attitude and enjoy life.