Palpitations can lead to a risk of getting stroke

STROKE is a big problem in the UK — it’s the fourth most common cause of death, and a leading cause of major disability.

High blood pressure is recognised as one of the biggest single risk factors for stroke — but another possible risk factor is atrial fibrillation (AF).

The condition’s associated with a fivefold increased stroke risk. While it’s not the most common risk factor in stroke overall, figures suggest every few hours, 10 people in the UK with AF will have a stroke, and strokes associated with AF tend to be very major.

Modern treatments for managing AF can massively slash this risk. However, it seems lots of people still aren’t benefiting from the recommended treatments.

To address this, a new campaign called AF180 Degrees has just been launched.

AF is characterised by an irregular and very rapid heartbeat. It’s one of the most common forms of abnormal heart rhythm and mostly occurs in older age groups, and those with other existing problems.

“If your pulse is not regular, go and speak to your GP about it,” stresses Professor Martin Cowie from the Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS.

“Often people are not taking palpitations seriously, or thinking, ‘Well, I had AF but it will probably settle’.

“AF strokes are caused by a clot in the heart, which breaks off, shoots up to the brain and blocks off a big section. It’s usually a majorly debilitating stroke, and lots of people who’ve had an AF-associated stroke die within 30 days, and others are left very disabled.”

Visit www.af180.co.uk