Wellness Watch – Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is the most common type of heart arrhythmia. It is an irregular heartbeat that can occur in brief episodes or become a permanent condition. One of the most serious risks associated with AFib is stroke. Watch this video to hear Phoebe Electrophysiologist Dr. Edward Koomson explain how AFib can cause a stroke and discuss treatments available to reduce your risk of a stroke, including Watchman. Phoebe is the only hospital in southwest Georgia offering the minimially-invasive Watchman procedure.
AFib Risk Factors
- Advancing age
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Chronic kidney disease
- Heavy alcohol use
- Sleep apnea
If you have risk factors and/or symptoms of AFib, you should see a cardiologist. You can schedule an appointment with Phoebe Cardiology. Go to www.phoebeheart.com to find the office closest to you and to learn more about our services.
AFib Symptoms
- Irregular heartbeat
- Rapid beating, fluttering or pounding of the heart
- Dizziness
- Extreme fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Learn more about AFib from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Heart Association by clicking on the links below.
- https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_atrial_fibrillation.htm
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/why-atrial-fibrillation-af-or-afib-matters
Georgia is one 11 states located in what’s known as the Stroke Belt, where the risk of stroke is 34% higher for the general population than it is in the rest of the country. Remember the acronym FAST to spot stroke signs…