Irregular heartbeat condition increases stroke risk

World Stroke Day is observed on Oct. 29 to underscore the serious nature and high rates of stroke, raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of the condition, and ensure better care and support for survivors.

Your risk of stroke depends on several factors, including age, gender, diabetes, high blood pressure, vascular disease and history of previous strokes. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an abnormal heart rhythm that can increase the risk of stroke. The heart’s upper chambers (atria) beat in an abnormal pattern (fibrillate).

A person experiencing AFib may feel unwell or experience a fluttering sensation in the chest. Some people with AFib have no symptoms. AFib significantly increases the risk of stroke due to irregular heartbeats that allow blood to pool and form clots, which can travel to the brain, causing a stroke.

Blood thinners, or anticoagulants, are a key treatment to reduce stroke risk in AFib patients. There are two types of blood thinners. Warfarin reduces stroke risk but requires regular blood tests and has dietary restrictions. Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) are newer blood-thinning medications, such as Eliquis or Xarelto, that are easier to manage as they don’t need frequent monitoring and have fewer dietary limitations.

AFib-related strokes are often severe, with long-term consequences like paralysis or cognitive impairments. Blood thinners can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 70%, particularly in patients with additional risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.

Dr. Erik Bostrom, Riverwood family physician, comments, “Blood thinners come with a risk of bleeding, but with careful monitoring, most patients can safely use them. If you have AFib, talk with your provider to choose the right medication to significantly lower your stroke risk. You can also improve your overall heart health by managing blood pressure, controlling diabetes, and staying physically active. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating plenty of vegetables and fruits can also help further reduce stroke risk.”

Knowing how to recognize stroke symptoms is critical to getting fast medical care that can prevent death and disability.  A simple acronym to help you remember stroke symptoms is BEFAST. Balance loss. Eyesight changes. Face drooping. Arm weakness. Speech difficulty. Time to call 9-1-1.