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What is AFib stroke and what causes it

Afib (Atrial Fibrillation) is a condition in which there is abnormal and fast electrical rhythm in the upper chambers of the heart. When afib occurs, the upper chambers do not contract completely, and hence the flow of blood gets restricted. As the blood collects or gets stagnant, it slowly starts forming clots. These blood clots could move to the brain causing a stroke. Afib treatments, therefore, need to be done quickly to prevent this from happening.

What is AFib stroke and what causes it
Before starting on afib stroke medications, it would be beneficial to understand the causes of this condition.

According to the statistics, more than 2.6 million Americans are affected by Afib. This number is only expected to increase to about 12 million by the year 2050, due to the aging population. Afib-related strokes are said to be nearly twice as fatal and disabling as non-afib related strokes.

Causes of Afib stroke
Afib is a condition that should not be left untreated. Many people with afib are usually unaware of their condition, hence diagnosing afib is even harder. If there is no timely treatment, afib stroke can have serious repercussions on the physical health. Listed below are some of the causes of Afib:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart attacks or previous heart surgeries or congenital heart defects
  • Overactive thyroid glands
  • Exposure to certain stimulants like tobacco, alcohol or caffeine
  • Cholesterol is seen to be the cause in many cases of afib

The main cause of afib stroke is the formation of clots due to the chaotic electric rhythm in the upper chambers of the heart. Afib treatment medication is hence focused on preventing the formation of clots. Also, understanding the patient’s condition could help in getting the right type of atrial fibrillation medications.

The best afib treatment medication would be to prevent afib strokes by treating it, rather than ignoring it. Periodic testing would be the best way to be safe. Also maintaining a healthy diet and an active lifestyle will be beneficial.

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