Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of arrhythmia. Sometimes it does not show signs of its presence, but it can manifest itself with rapid heartbeat, fatigue or temporary palpitations. Unfortunately it is not always recognized in time.
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Atrial fibrillation, why does stroke risk increase? How to prevent it? the quiz
by Federico Mereta
The prevention it’s important. In terms of nutrition, the Mediterranean diet remains the best model, just as it is important to control body weight and do regular physical activity in agreement with the doctor. It must be said that recently some studies have shown that taking high doses of omega-3 fatty acids can increase the risk of developing the problem.
For what concern treatment direct arrhythmia, which can take on characteristics of different intensity and severity from case to case, sometimes we proceed with electrical cardioversion which aims to correct it at the base.
However, it is important to remember that atrial fibrillation puts the heart, but especially the brain, at risk. Inside the atrium, the upper chamber of the left heart, the altered beats can create disturbances in the normal circulation of the blood, which therefore tends to form small clots. If these then move through the arteries to the vessels supplying the brain, they can stop circulation in a brain area. For this reason, those who suffer from it can see the risk of suffering a cerebral stroke increase up to five times.
The treatment must be defined on a case-by-case basis. But it is crucial, if the stroke risk is elevated, keep blood thin with anticoagulant drugs, which have just that goal. However, for those suffering from diabetes, particular attention is needed, since in this condition the risk of bleeding can increase in those who deal with atrial fibrillation.