NHS South Yorkshire is supporting Stroke Prevention Day (Thursday 25 January) by encouraging local residents to check their pulse to see if it is regular.
Atrial fibrillation is a condition of the electric circuitry, that causes a heart to beat with an irregular rhythm. When this happens, the heart won't empty all of the blood out with every beat which can lead to blood clots which can travel from your heart into the brain, blocking off blood flow and causing a stroke.
Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disturbance, affecting around 1.4 million people in the UK and is a major factor in one in five strokes. It is estimated that there are as many as half a million people living with atrial fibrillation who don’t know it.
Dr David Crichton, Medical Officer at NHS South Yorkshire said “Atrial fibrillation is where the heart rate is irregular and can feel like its beating very fast. In some cases, it can be higher than 100 beats a minute. This can cause symptoms including dizziness, shortness of breath and tiredness.
“People who suspect they have atrial fibrillation are encouraged to have it checked to have this confirmed and to discuss the next steps. Atrial fibrillation is a cause of strokes, it's important that everyone checks their pulse from time to time which will help lower the risk of having a stroke.”
A normal heart rate should be regular and between 60 and 100 beats a minute when you're resting.
You can measure your heart rate by checking your pulse in your wrist or neck.
By stopping smoking, eating a healthy diet, taking regular exercise and limiting alcohol are also important factors to help prevent a stroke.
