Atrial Fibrillation Program
Atrial fibrillation (AF) can severely impact a person’s quality of life, causing heart palpitations, chronic fatigue and pain. It also can increase a person’s risk for stroke. Atrial fibrillation is estimated to be responsible for 88,000 deaths and $16 billion in healthcare costs in the U.S.
AF affects about 2.5 million Americans, but as America’s population ages, that number is expected to increase to 5.6 million adults over the next 40 years. The risk of developing Atrial fibrillation increases with age.
To meet this growing need, Summa Health System offers patients a comprehensive atrial fibrillation program staffed by specially trained electrophysiologists who can effectively treat and manage this condition.
How will this program help me?
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder which currently affects about 2.5 million Americans. Left untreated, it can increase a person's risk for stroke.
It is important for patients (and their families) to understand:
- What atrial fibrillation is and what causes it
- What medications and procedures are used to treat it
What can I expect during visits?
During your initial visit, the physician will take a medical history to help determine the severity of your symptoms and assess how other factors may be contributing to your condition, such as alcohol or caffeine intake. Your doctor also will listen to your heartbeat and breathing using a stethoscope.
He/she may also perform an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to confirm whether atrial fibrillation or some other arrhythmia is present which may have similar symptoms. Your doctor will take into account the severity of your symptoms, whether symptoms have been ongoing or have just recently appeared and your past medical history when making treatment recommendations.
How can I participate or learn more?
If you have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or you have been experiencing symptoms (a fluttering feeling in the chest, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc.), talk to your doctor about getting a referral to SCI's Atrial Fibrillation Program at Summa Akron City Hospital.
If you wish to learn more about Summa's Atrial Fibrillation Program, call (800) 237-8662 to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
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