Baby BoomerSeniors News:
Don’t let a stroke be the first time you discover you have an irregular heartbeat!
An estimated 500,000 Australians have Atrial Fibrillation, the most common irregular heartbeat, and its prevalence is expected to double in the next decade.
Many people living with AF don’t experience symptoms, which means you could be living with the underlying heart condition and not know it.
Alarmingly, up to 30% of those affected by the disorder remain undiagnosed, which is why awareness is so important.
This year hearts4heart is launching its 8th Annual Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week. They aim to raise awareness, educate people about symptoms and risk (particularly for the over 65s) and encourage at-risk people to speak with their GP about heart checks and managing heart health.
Are you at risk?
AF affects men and women and can occur at any age.
Risk factors include:
- Physical inactivity
- Being overweight
- Disrupted sleep
- Having diabetes
- Smoking
- High blood cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Age over 65 years
What can you do?
Recognising AF symptoms is key to early diagnosis, stroke prevention, effective management of the condition, and the best health outcomes.
Symptoms can include any of the following:
- Dizziness
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting
- Ankle swelling
- Chest pain
If you’re experiencing any of the above, don’t put your heart health on hold. Speak to your GP and get your heart checked.
Discovering an irregular heartbeat could save your life.
Key facts:
- As many as 30% of those living with atrial fibrillation remain undiagnosed and are at high risk of stroke, heart failure and dementia.
- One in three Australians are at risk of developing the condition in their lifetime, and its prevalence is expected to double in the next decade.
- Find out more at hearts4heart.org.au
- Supported by Australian and New Zealand cardiologists, hearts4heart is a leading health promotion charity supporting, educating, and advocating for people living with heart disease.