What is a Atrial Fibrillation (Afib)?

According to The American Heart Association, Atrial fibrillation is a quivering or irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, can lead to blood clots, heart failure, and increases the risk of stroke by five times, as well as other heart-related complications.

What is a Stroke?

Uniquely, a stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery, or a blood vessel breaks and interrupts blood flow to the brain, causing cells in your brain to die. Furthermore, it can cause difficulties in speech, movement, and memory. In addition, strokes may cause death. According to the CDC, stroke is the 5th leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. Therefore about 795,000 people in the US have a stroke each year.

Risk Factors

Granted this event can happen to anyone, however, there are some risk factors that can increase your risk:

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Race (African-American and Hispanic, men and women, are at higher risk)
  • Family history
  • Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
  • History of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Sickle Cell disease
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Physical inactivity
  • Too much alcohol
  • Tobacco use

1.9 million brain cells die every minute during a stroke – Stroke Awareness Foundation

Possible Prevention of Strokes

Moreover, you may be able to prevent/ lower the chance by:

  • Maintaining a healthy diet
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Physical activity
  • Stop smoking
  • Limit alcohol intake

Furthermore a stroke is an emergency. Do you know the warning signs? Use the F.A.S.T. acronym as explained in this video from The American Heart Association.

If you suspect you or someone you know is having a stroke, call 9-1-1 or get to the Surepoint ER near you for immediate medical attention.

During a stroke, every second counts. Our doctors and nurses understand how important timely treatment is, so we are open 24/7 to provide stroke care.

 

Surepoint Emergency Center is a modern emergency medical facility open 24/7/365. As an alternative to the traditional hospital ER experience, we offer convenience and minimal wait time, along with highly-trained emergency medical staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

Our top priority is bringing high-quality emergency care, quickly and easily to your family. We are committed to making patients feel better faster in a comforting and compassionate environment.

Fast convenient care in your neighborhood.