Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is detected by an irregular pulse and often accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue or shortness of breath. AF occurs when chaotic electrical activity develops in the upper chambers or atria and completely takes over from the sinus node. As a result, the atria no longer beats in an organised way and pumps less efficiently.
How do I know if I have Atrial Fibrillation (AF)? for further information download our informative 'Atrial Fibrillation (AF) Discussion Guide'
Hi Tracy. From a personal perspective, I think that the medical community needs to address that AF and stroke are not confined to the over-60s. I believe that the participants in the Cambridge University SAFER trial are all over 70. When I raised screening for undiagnosed AF using a waveform display oximeter, the reply was that they were waiting for the results of the SAFER trial. Meanwhile... By the way, an EP said that I did not need an anticoagulant; 18 months later I had an occipital stroke that permanently affected my vision.
Thank you for your response, I will be sure to share your comments with the team. How are you feeling now? I am sorry to read about your experiences, may i wish you all the best in your recovery.
Thank you for your kind reply. My stroke was in 2016 and there wasn't any support; that is still true for many of us. Over the years I have joined the Bristol Stroke Health Integration Team, and the Stroke Association; I've participated as a stroke lived experience person in studies for eleven universities. I recall the AFFIRMO Zoom meetings chaired by Trudie Lobban. We need to screen for undiagnosed AF, provide support for people who have had a stroke and their carers, and test for enzyme variants (allele) that metabolise drugs such as clopidogrel and SSRIs. There is much to do guys and no time to rest!
I could not agree more! We are constantly campaigning and raising awareness of the importance of 'Know Your Pulse' checks, as quite often an irregular pulse check can often be the early warning signs of an underlying arrhythmia.
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Avoiding permanent atrial fibrillation: treatment approaches to prevent disease progression.
Your help is needed! Screening for atrial fibrillation
