going deeper

September is National Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month! According to the CDC, AFib affects up to 6 million Americans and causes about 1 in 7 strokes. Pirooz Mofrad, MD, an electrophysiologist with Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center joins us to discuss what Afib is and how you can reduce your risk of developing AFib.

What is atrial fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a common irregular heartbeat condition that causes a person to have a fast, irregular beat that happens due to abnormal electrical patterns in the heart.

What are some symptoms of Afib to look out for? Not everyone who has Afib has symptoms. However, those who do experience symptoms can experience:

· Tiredness

· Dizziness

· Fainting

· Shortness of breath

· Chest pain

· Heart palpitations, which can feel like fluttering, racing, or pounding feeling in your chest

When left untreated, AFib can dislodge a blood clot and cause a stroke.

How can you reduce your risk of developing AFib? The best way to reduce your risk of developing AFib is to follow these tips for a heart-healthy lifestyle.

· Get regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes three to five times a week)

· Eat a heart-healthy diet low in salt, sugar, saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol

· Manage your blood pressure

· Do not smoke

· Control your cholesterol

· Maintain a healthy weight

· Get an annual physical