Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month: Take Control of Your Heart Health
September is Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) Awareness Month, a critical time to raise awareness about Afib, a common but serious heart condition. Afib is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can lead to various cardiovascular complications, including stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related issues.
At Midwest Cardiovascular Institute (MCI), our Afib Clinic is dedicated to helping you manage Afib so that it doesn’t disrupt your life. Our experienced team of cardiac electrophysiologists and advanced practice providers specialize in evaluating and reducing your risks associated with Afib, offering the most advanced treatment options available. We are committed to supporting you on your journey back to a normal heart rhythm, beat by beat.
Atrial Fibrillation occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat chaotically and don’t synchronize with the lower chambers. This irregularity can be caused by various factors, including heart conditions, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, excessive alcohol consumption, and sometimes it may occur without a known cause.
Some people with Afib may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms include:
- Heart racing
- Chest pain
- Light-headedness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
While there is no permanent cure for Afib, effective management strategies can help you live a full and healthy life. These strategies include lifestyle modifications, medications to control heart rate and rhythm, and procedures such as ablation to restore normal heart rhythm. In some cases, blood thinners may be necessary to reduce the risk of stroke.
At MCI, we provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs, helping you navigate your treatment options and find the best path forward.
It’s essential to assess your stroke risk if you have Afib. Factors such as congestive heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, previous stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), and age (65 and older) can increase your risk. Our team at MCI will work with you to evaluate your risk and determine the appropriate preventive measures.
Don’t let Afib go unchecked. Take control of your heart health today. Schedule an appointment with our expert team at MCI to discuss your symptoms, evaluate your risk factors, and explore the best treatment options for you. Your heart deserves the best care—make an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier future.