A stroke is a serious medical condition that can lead to long-term disability or even death. The risk factors for stroke are well-known – high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

However, there is a risk factor that is often overlooked, which doubles your chances of having a stroke. This risk factor is atrial fibrillation (AFib).

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the two upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat irregularly and out of sync with the two lower chambers, called the ventricles.

AFib can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure.

How AFib Increases Your Risk of Stroke

When the heart beats irregularly in AFib, blood can pool in the atria and form clots. These clots can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke.

In fact, AFib increases your risk of stroke five-fold, and it is responsible for one out of every six strokes.

Who is at Risk for AFib?

AFib is more common in older adults and those with underlying heart conditions such as high blood pressure, heart valve disease, or congenital heart defects.

Other risk factors for AFib include obesity, sleep apnea, and a family history of the condition.

How is AFib Diagnosed?

AFib can be diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart.

If you have symptoms of AFib, such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or chest pain, your doctor may order an ECG to check for the condition. In some cases, AFib may be diagnosed during a routine physical exam or a visit to the emergency room.

Treatment Options for AFib

Treating AFib is important to lower your risk of stroke and other complications. Treatment options may include:.

Medications to control the heart rate or rhythm
Blood thinners to prevent blood clots
Catheter ablation, a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy small areas of heart tissue that are causing the irregular heartbeat
Surgery to remove the left atrial appendage, where blood clots often form in AFib

Preventing AFib

While not all cases of AFib can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These may include:.

Managing underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea
Maintaining a healthy weight
Exercising regularly
Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake

Conclusion

Atrial fibrillation is a common and serious condition that can increase your risk of stroke. If you have symptoms of AFib or are at risk for the condition, talk to your doctor about screening and treatment options.

By managing AFib, you can significantly reduce your risk of stroke and other complications.