For decades, scientists have been studying the link between dementia and atrial fibrillation (AFib). The mounting body of research shows that AFib is linked to an increased risk for dementia, even among patients who have …
Category: Atrial Fibrillation
Debunking Common Myths about AFib
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, can be triggered by high stress levels, smoking and drinking, sleep apnea and strenuous exercises. Fatigue, shortness of breath, and an irregular heart rhythm are all symptoms of AFib, but they …
How is AFib Diagnosed?
Atrial fibrillation (also called AFib or AF) is a condition where the atrium in the heart beats too fast. AFib is split up into two types of atrial fibrillation: tachycardia and bradycardia. Tachycardia is an …
What Can Trigger Atrial Fibrillation?
If you are experiencing a fluttering in your chest or feel like your heart is racing, you may have atrial fibrillation (AFib). While AFib is not life-threatening by itself, it could increase your risk of …
What Does Atrial Fibrillation Feel Like?
Estimates from the CDC show that between 2.7 million and 6.1 million Americans have atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. This common heart arrhythmia causes an irregular heartbeat and is a leading cause of stroke. …
Stroke Deaths Rising on Florida’s Suncoast—May is Stroke Awareness Month
New research from the American Heart Association shows that stroke deaths are unfortunately on the rise in certain counties across the country, including here on Florida’s Suncoast. Despite advances in awareness and care, there was …
What Do AFib Patients Need To Know About Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
All age groups are being affected by COVID-19, but in general younger people are more likely to be asymptomatic or only come down with a mild case when being exposed to the virus. People over …
April is Stress Awareness Month
Most people experience stress on a daily basis, but realize how it affects their physiological health, in particular their heart health. This is especially true for people who suffer from existing cardiovascular conditions such as …
6 Ways to Stop an AFib Episode
If you have atrial fibrillation (AFib), you may feel a fluttering in your chest or it may seem as if your heart is racing. Sometimes, these episodes stop on their own. In other cases, some …
Atrial Fibrillation: The Difference Between Men and Women
As many as six million Americans suffer from atrial fibrillation, a potentially dangerous abnormality in the heart’s normal rhythm or beat pattern. Like other heart diseases, AFib affects women and men, but the causes and …
February is American Heart Month
Heart disease is the most common cause of death in the U.S. for both men and women. In fact, one in four deaths is due to heart disease each year. Being a federally designated event, …
Cleaner Teeth, Lower Risk of AFib?
Did you know that there’s a direct correlation between oral health and the health of your heart? According to a recent study, people who brush their teeth at least three times a day have significantly …
Obesity May Weaken Effectiveness of AFib Medications
Adult obesity rates in the U.S. are on the rise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that almost 40 percent of the adult population is obese — that’s about 93 million U.S. citizens. …
2020 Heart-Healthy Resolutions
Committing to a heart-healthy lifestyle can seem like a daunting task, but improving your heart health can increase the quality and length of your life. Below are a few heart-healthy resolutions to get you started. …
Holiday Heart Syndrome: What You Need to Know About Alcohol and AFib
During the holiday season, emergency rooms in Florida and other areas around the country see an uptick in heart-related problems, especially atrial fibrillation. What is Holiday Heart Syndrome and what is its cause? What is …
Binge-Drinking vs. Frequent Drinking: Which Increases Your Risk of AFib the Most?
Drinking alcohol is a known risk factor for those with atrial fibrillation (AFib) or irregular and rapid heartbeat, which is a condition that often comes with no symptoms. Until now, binge drinking was believed to …
Is Breast Cancer Linked to Higher Risk of Atrial Fibrillation?
One out of every eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer — that’s about 12 percent of the female population in this country. Men are at risk for this deadly disease as well, with over …
September is AFib Awareness Month
Atrial fibrillation can lead to several life-threatening medical conditions. September is recognized as Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month to highlight the importance of AFib testing and treatment. Find out more about diagnosing atrial fibrillation and best …
5 Healthy Exercises That Are Safe While Living with Afib
Regular exercise is important for everyone’s heart health, but AFib patients should take extra precautions when getting active after a diagnosis. Here are some ways you can stay healthy and safe with AFib, and remember …
4 Tips to Managing AFib in the Summer Heat
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) can sometimes be brought on by your environmental conditions, including the heat. The hot weather can not only intensify the symptoms you feel, such as the severity of your heart rate, but …