My Healthy Heart Blogs
September is Atrial Fibrillation Month
08/29/08
Events
Commonly known as afib, atrial fibrillation is a misfiring of the electrical signals of the heart involving rapid or irregular heartbeats or quivering of the heart's upper chambers. Once considered benign, according to Mellanie True Hills of StopAfib.org, this cardiac arrhythmia can actually lead to congestive heart failure or stroke. One-third of atrial fibrillation patients will have a stroke, and afib is responsible for 105,000-140,000 strokes per year in the United States. Stroke, a top-three killer, claims at least one person every hour and is the number one cause of permanent disability.
More than five million Americans now suffer from atrial fibrillation in which the heart goes out of control with little warning and for no apparent reason. It's a frightening occurrence that will impact millions more as atrial fibrillation overtakes aging baby boomers. The Mayo Clinic estimates that by 2050 at least 16 million Americans will have it.
What You Can Do in September for Atrial Fibrillation Month:
- Listen to your heart for racing, palpitations, or an irregular heartbeat.
- Learn about atrial fibrillation.
- Learn about afib causes and risk factors, which may include existing heart disease or obstructive sleep apnea.
- If you suspect atrial fibrillation, ask your doctor to check you out.
- If you have atrial fibrillation, learn how to treat and manage afib.
- Ask family and friends to learn more.
If you are looking for more treatment, The Atrial Fibrillation Services Locator features more than 175 hospitals, arrhythmia and atrial fibrillation centers, electrophysiologists, cardiologists, and surgeons who specialize in treating atrial fibrillation patients.
Download a free copy of Eliz’s Patient Perspective Magazine on Atrial Fibrillation.
For more Healthy Lifestyle Tips for Busy People visit Eliz’s blog at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com.
Eliz Greene survived a heart attack at age thirty-five while seven-months pregnant with twins. She is a heart health educator, freelance writer, and speaker on a mission to help busy people lead healthier lives.
