Atrial Fibrillation is a type of cardiac arrhythmia where
the top chambers of the heart beat faster than it should not allowing the blood
to circulate down to the lower chambers of the heart (Vega, 2008).
Vega (2008) shares how people with Atrial Fibrillation
(A-Fib) are an a greater risks for having a stroke than people who do not have A-Fib.
Reference:
Vega, J. (2008).
Atrial fibrillation and stroke: what is atrial fibrillation? About.com health’s disease and
condition. Retrieved from http://stroke.about.
This is a great topic. My father has atrial fibrillation and his chances of a stroke are increased as you stated. Do you know how much greater his risk for having a stroke is?
ReplyDeleteLook forward to reading more.
Margaret,
DeleteAccording to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2011), persons with A-fib increases their risk on average by 2-4 times.
Reference:
National Iinstitute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2011). Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke Information Page. Retrieved from http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/atrial_fibrillation_and_stroke/atrial_fibrillation_and_stroke.htm#What_is_the_prognosis
Margaret,
DeleteI posted some statistics on the increased risk for patients with AF. I definitely believe the more we educate the community on the warning signs of stroke the better outcomes patients with a stroke will have.
This is an extremely important topic. I really like the FAST acronym. It sticks with you and is easy to remember. Nice job with this blog.
ReplyDeleteMarla,
ReplyDeleteI agree that many people are not aware that atrial fibrillation places them at increased risk for stroke. They think they have a heart condition, but are not aware of the signs of a stroke! I look forward to learning more! Lori
Isn't that the truth Lori! Most of the public doesn't realize that a heart problem can lead to something involving the brain! Education such as this is so important. Good for Marla for putting it together! JJ
DeleteThank you both. It is surprising that we take for granted what we know that everyone knows and remembers too.
DeleteML
Terri,
ReplyDeleteWe have FAST acronym cards posted in all public places in our facility as well as in each nursing station. We instituted a neuro RRT for any patient exhibiting signs and symptoms of stroke. We have found an increased incidence of stroke for patients with undiagnosed or untreated atrial fibrillation! Lori
Lori,
DeleteWhat a fantastic idea! Sharing these type of ideas is very helpful for other institutions who are experiencing similar occurences.
Marla: Great information about Atrial Fibrillation. I think there is one very important point that is missing. Because the atria is beating so fast it doesn't allow the blood to empty completely forming clots. It is the clots that actually cause the stroke from Atrial Fibrillation.
ReplyDeleteMary,
DeleteYou are very right. Thank you for sharing.