Stroke Danger Atrial fibrillation is usually not recognized

Atrial fibrillation is often not recognized

Over two million people in Germany suffer from atrial fibrillation. Even though many sufferers experience symptoms such as dizziness, heart stuttering and palpitations, the cardiac arrhythmia is often not recognized. This can be dangerous, because atrial fibrillation often leads to strokes.

Atrial fibrillation can lead to a stroke
In general, it is harmless when the heart occasionally stumbles: This can also be due to overexertion or excitement. However, if such irregularities occur more frequently or last longer, sufferers should consult a doctor. In the worst case, the so-called atrial fibrillation can lead to a stroke. This is what the German Senior League points out in its brochure on the subject, as the news agency dpa reports. It is said that atrial fibrillation in the atria can cause blood clots that are dragged along by the blood and then close off arteries.

Over two million Germans affected
With estimated more than two million sufferers, atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in Germany. If it is recognized in time, for example, it can be counteracted with medication and a healthy lifestyle. In addition, one can alleviate atrial fibrillation by losing weight, as Australian researchers recently reported. According to the senior league, it is problematic, however, that atrial fibrillation is not necessarily accompanied by typical complaints such as palpitations, shortness of breath, tightness of the chest or dizziness, and therefore is often often dismissed by those affected.

Various causes of atrial fibrillation
According to the data, people with high blood pressure and diabetes as well as older people over the age of 65 are particularly at risk. Even people who smoke or are overweight, should be checked regularly by the doctor. Other factors that can cause atrial fibrillation include disorders such as coronary heart disease (CHD), hyperthyroidism, chronic lung disease or excessive alcohol consumption. Health experts suggest having a blood pressure monitor at home that can detect irregular heartbeat when measuring blood pressure. If in doubt, patients should have their heart rhythm checked by ECG. (Ad)

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Image: Dieter Schütz