Global AF Aware Week is two weeks away! | Arrhythmia Alliance October eNews

November e-News

Working together to improve the diagnosis, treatment and

quality of life for all those affected by arrhythmias

Ways To Get Involved

To attend, host or support an event or learn more

click here

Every $1 donated makes a difference. To donate

click here

To share our message on social media

click here

HeartFirst Focus

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) Resources

It is essential for patients to find the resources that they need to support them in this health journey. AF Association produces a range of resources for patients and caregivers including booklets, checklists and fact sheets. Click the booklets to download.

More resources

Heart-Healthy Habits

Stroke could easily result from Atrial Fibrillation (AF). Understanding the signs and symptoms of an AF-related stroke could potentially save a life. Below are ways to recognize an AF-related stroke and how to help.

Strokes vary in intensity and the effects can be temporary or permanent. Silent strokes affect areas of the brain which are not directly associated with motor functions and can often times go unnoticed.

What is AFib-related stroke?

The irregular rhythm of the heart caused by AF gives opportunity for the blood to pool and form into a clot. These clots have the potential to break away and flow through the blood until they cause a blockage which causes an ischemic stroke.

The FAST Test: Recognizing Symptoms or Signs of a Stroke

The symptoms of a stroke can be recognized by the FAST test, which is the test also used by paramedics to diagnose a stroke:

FACE - Has the person's mouth or eye drooped down? Can they smile?

ARM - Can they raise both arms?

SPEECH - Can the person speak clearly? Can you understand what they are saying?

TIME - Act fast and call 911

For more information on AF-related Strokes, please click below:

AF Association AF-Related Stroke Education

The Community Corner

Community Partnership

During AF Association Global AF Aware week,

we will be working with local community partners to spread the word about the importance of detecting AF. Our Community Partnerships are vital when it comes to educating others about the detection of AF and the importance of Global AF Aware Week.

For more information about AF Association Global AF Aware Week partnerships

and events , click here

Highlights from touchCARDIO

HRC Video Highlights

Dr. Kim Rajappan and Trudie Lobban, Founder & CEO of Arrhythmia Alliance

Know Your Pulse

Click below to view video

Stories From the Heart

In 2005, I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AF). I knew very little about this condition, however, after a bit of research I felt reassured it was nothing to be overly concerned about. My only concern was my age. I was only 41 at the time. As I read, I found that athletes could also suffer with this condition as well which made me feel better since I secretly thought that I was super fit. In 2007, I had a very frightening experience. I felt my heart going extremely fast. I felt dizzy, faint, short of breath and very unwell. Just before my daughter called an ambulance, the episode stopped... Read More

Help Support Fellow AF Patients By Sharing Your Story

This patient story reminds us all of the importance helping those who suffer with AF.

Help us support AF patients by sharing your story. For more information, please email:

s.gavin@heartrhythmalliance.org

Patient Information

Everything You Need to Know About Atrial Fibrillation

There are so many things to learn in regards to Atrial Fibrillation including the various symptoms, treatments, causes, risk factors, complications, surgery and prevention.

An overall healthy lifestyle may decrease chances of AF, but not all causes are preventable. Take time to educate yourself on behaviors that would help manage or prevent AF. Healthy habits, treatment and medications could help in most patient cases.