An irregular heartbeat — and why we treat it
The top chambers of your heart quiver instead of pumping cleanly. The pulse becomes irregular — sometimes fast, sometimes slow.
Palpitations, breathlessness, tiredness or chest fluttering. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all — just an irregular pulse on a check.
Blood can pool in the quivering chambers and form clots. If one travels to the brain, it causes a stroke.
They make clots far less likely. They're the single most important part of treatment for most people with AF.
A tablet to slow your heart rate down (often a beta-blocker) makes you feel better and protects the heart over time.
Alcohol, caffeine, poor sleep, untreated sleep apnoea and being unwell can all set AF off. Addressing them really helps.
Blood thinners only work while they're in your system. Missing doses lets the stroke risk creep back fast.
Before any surgery, dental work or new medicine, tell them you're on a blood thinner. It matters.
Mild bruising is common. Significant bleeding (heavy nose bleed, blood in urine or stool) needs a same-day check.
Fall-proof your home, treat dizziness, and ask about a balance review — the goal is to stay upright.
Less alcohol, less caffeine, better sleep, and getting any sleep apnoea treated can reduce how often AF flares.
Regular gentle exercise is good for AF, your blood pressure and your heart. Walking is plenty — consistency matters more than intensity.
Print-ready A4 PDF to take home or hand to a patient.
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