Health People who have previously been treated for Afib find these personal-use ECG monitors especially helpful in their ongoing care. Because some people have recurrent Afib, even after various treatments, they are more easily able to self-monitor their heart rhythm and detect recurrence of the irregular heartbeat. Even people who have intermittent episodes of Afib are at risk for stroke, so early detection becomes important. For people who are healthy and have no cardiac history, risk factors or symptoms, such personal-use ECG monitors are probably not cost-effective, but for anyone with a history of cardiac issues or for those who may from time to time experience symptoms, especially palpitations, this initial screening tool is a worthwhile purchase. Once Afib has been confirmed with either an office or hospital ECG machine, a treatment plan is developed for the patient. If the ECG does not detect Afib and there is still suggestion of episodes of abnormal pulse or symptoms, a 24-hour monitoring device called a Holter monitor can be worn by the patient to further detect any periods of abnormal heart function. The objective of treatment is to return the heart to a regular beat, reduce any fast pulse rate and prevent blood clots from forming in the heart. If the pulse rate is rapid, certain drugs called beta-blockers or calcium channel-blockers are most commonly prescribed. To help control the rhythm and pulse rate, other drugs including digoxin may be used. Blood thinners are prescribed whose aim is to reduce the risk of clots developing in the heart which, if released, can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Warfarin, the original blood thinner, requires regular blood tests to monitor the proper dosage but the newer anticoagulants do not. Snowbirds who are required to take Warfarin should request a written order for the routine test by their Canadian doctor and then find a laboratory near their winter destination which will accept the doctor’s order. The results would be sent to their Canadian doctor to see if any change in dosage was warranted. This process works for most and saves the patient the costs associated with these non-emergency doctors’ fees while away. Patients who are newly diagnosed with Afib may be offered a procedure called cardioversion, in which an electrical shock is applied externally to the chest wall. Another initial attempt to reset the heart rhythm may be tried through oral or intravenous medication. As either an initial treatment or a planned procedure, cardiac ablation is often utilized. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into a large vein and extending it to the heart to administer cold, heat or electrical energy creating tiny scars to block the faulty electrical signals that cause the irregular heartbeat. Afib can occur with anyone but, as with many other conditions, the risk is reduced in those who follow a healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet, avoiding excess weight, getting regular exercise, keeping blood pressure and lipid levels within normal ranges, as well as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol are all important measures that help to keep you and your heart healthy. rubysinn.com/csa2024 Hey snowbird! As you cruise down from the Great White North to the sunny Southwest, what is stopping you from stopping by Ruby’s Inn? We are just a short distance off the I-15! swing by and enjoy a great dinner, peaceful hikes, and exploring one of America's best National Parks at Bryce Canyon. Hope to see you soon. comfortable accommodations, the best prices of the year, great hiking weather, & easy access to the park! CSANews | FALL 2024 | 35
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