We can use several medications to control your heart rate or rhythm and reduce the risk of having a stroke. These medications include blood thinners, which keep blood from clotting and causing a stroke.
Reducing Your Risk of Stroke While Living with AFib
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, can increase your risk for having a stroke. But through lifestyle changes and certain treatment options, you can lower your risk and live a full life. AFib is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation causes palpitations in the upper chambers of your heart. These palpitations prevent the upper chambers from contracting properly, which can lead to blood pooling and clotting. If a clot breaks free and travels to the brain, it can block blood flow and cause a stroke.
The heart experts at St. Luke’s Heart & Vascular Institute know what it takes to reduce your stroke risk by controlling your AFib. We’ll develop a care plan specific to your needs so you can continue living life to the fullest with a strong, healthy heart.
Leading the Way on Advanced Treatment Options
You can do a lot to keep your AFib under control and live the life you want. Here are several things you can do to keep your AFib under control:
A cardiac ablation is a minimally invasive procedure in which your doctor gets rid of tissue in your heart that’s sending the wrong electrical signals. This cardiac ablation redirects the signals, so you have a normal heartbeat again. Your doctor may recommend medications even after an ablation.
The WATCHMAN procedure, also known as left atrial appendage closure (LAAC), is a minimally invasive procedure that implants a small, parachute-shaped device into the heart to reduce the risk of stroke from atrial fibrillation. Learn more about the WATCHMAN procedure.
Getting at least 30 minutes of activity each day offers many health benefits and can decrease your risk of diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease — all of which only contribute to an increased risk of stroke.
Incorporate more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fiber into your diet. Our nutrition services team members can help you with healthy meal planning.
Regular or heavy drinking can increase your risk for heart disease, diabetes and stroke. It can also interfere with certain medications.
Smoking puts an unnecessary demand on your heart and lungs. People who stop smoking significantly reduce their risk of diseases such as stroke, heart disease, cancers and respiratory problems.
Manage any other conditions you might have such as asthma, diabetes or sleep disorders. These diseases can also increase your risk of stroke and put additional strain on your cardiovascular system. Your doctor can help you get into the best health possible.