Butler Health System | Health Link | Spring 2019

A steady heartbeat drives good health. But sometimes, that steady beat can get thrown off rhythm. That’s what happens with atrial fibrillation (AFib). Certain cells in the heart create electrical signals. These signals then cause the heart to contract and pump blood. But with AFib, the heart’s two upper chambers—the atria— don’t beat like they should. Instead, they beat irregularly and way too fast. Anyone can develop AFib. But some conditions and habits can put you at a higher risk: Advanced age. Kids can get AFib, but it’s more com- mon as we age. High blood pressure. A history of uncontrolled blood pressure can cause problems. Heart disease or a history of heart attack. AFib is a common complication after heart surgery. Drinking alcohol. Binging or drinking large amounts can definitely increase your risk. But keep in mind that drink- Cardiac Care ing even modest amounts can trigger AFib in some people. Family history of AFib. If someone in your family has AFib, you’re at risk too. Sleep apnea. Sometimes treating apnea can improve AFib. Chronic conditions. These include thyroid prob- lems, diabetes and asthma. Not everyone who has AFib needs treatment. It’s a worrisome condition, but AFib doesn’t always call for medication or other therapies. Sometimes, heart rhythm can return to normal on its own. Even if you and your doctor decide treatment isn’t needed, you should work together to monitor your heart. Repeat episodes can lead to persistent or permanent AFib. To schedule a cardiology appointment, call BHS Cardiology at 1-866-620-6761 . 6.1 MILLION Up to 6.1 million Americans have AFib. If you have AFib, your risk of stroke is five times higher than someone without it. 5x Watch for these symptoms of AFib Heart palpitations, racing or fluttering heart Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting Shortness of breath, anxiety AFib doesn't always have symptoms, and they can vary, so you'll need an exam to get a diagnosis. Meet our new cardiologist Brian C. Carey, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional cardiology Dr. Carey earned his medi- cal degree from the Medical College of Pennsylva- nia and Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Phila- delphia, PA. He completed his internal medicine residency at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, and both a cardiology fellowship and an interventional cardiology fellowship at Geisinger Medi- cal Center in Danville, PA. He sees patients at 127 Oneida Valley Road in Butler and 100 Innovation Drive in Slippery Rock. To schedule, call 1-866-620-6761 . What’s your AFib risk? HEALTH LINK 6 |