A new study reports that blood levels of a protein hormone called N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) predicts new atrial fibrillation, regardless of other afib risk factors. Those with the highest levels were four times as likely to develop afib as those with the lowest levels. In the study, elevated levels of NT-proBNP occurred as …
Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that disrupts breathing during sleep, is believed to be linked to atrial fibrillation (AF) but until now, we didn’t know if apnea could actually trigger arrhythmias like afib. Now a new study shows the odds of having an abnormal heartbeat are 18 times higher immediately after an apnea episode, compared …
The Clear Lake Medical Center would like to invite the public to a free Afib education dinner in the Houston, TX area on November 12, 2009. Click here for more details.
Research shows the sooner an atrial fibrillation surgical procedure is done, the less likely afib is to recur. People in permanent atrial fibrillation who underwent surgery for other heart diseases and had a left atrial ablation procedure for AF at the same time were more likely to be afib-free if the procedure was done within …
A newly published study reports on a type of cell found in the upper chamber (atrium) of the heart and in the pulmonary veins that triggers atrial fibrillation. Like the skin cells that make pigment, the afib-trigger cells produce an enzyme called DCT. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to new research and effective atrial …
Are you in the Indianapolis area? Then come join Mellanie True Hills, CEO of StopAfib.org, and St. Francis physicians Dr. Marc Gerdisch and Dr. John "Trey" Moore III for an atrial fibrillation patient event on November 7. Learn about the symptoms, approach to diagnosis and new innovative treatment options for atrial fibrillation. Learn more at: …
Are you in the Allentown, PA area? Then come join Mellanie True Hills, CEO of StopAfib.org, and heart rhythm specialists for an atrial fibrillation patient event on October 21 presented by the Lehigh Valley Health Network. The event will be presented live at the Cedar Crest hospital, and will be simulcast at the Muhlenberg hospital. …
When we at StopAfib.org prepare for afib patient events, we try to share what we have learned from patients attending previous events to make each event go as smoothly as possible. We've summarized what we have heard and would like your input. Please check out our list of things for hospital marketing folks and doctors …
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has introduced a video to help those on anticoagulant drugs, such as Coumadin or warfarin, to use them safely. The video is designed to complement what patients learn from their doctors, pharmacies, or Coumadin clinics. Anticoagulants reduce the risk of stroke in those with atrial fibrillation by …