This was my first time in a hospital as a patient so it was overwhelming to say the least. As I was lying there, it was a continuous stream of nurses. One was giving me an EKG. Another was giving me an I.V. drip. Yet another was asking me questions and taking notes. These people were pros and extremely efficient. Eventually during all the chaos the doctor manning the E.R. department that evening came in and introduced herself. She was […]
READ MOREPart 1: A Night of Hard Core Drinking Leads To My First "Official" Afib Episode
I never drank an ounce of liquor in my life until I turned 18 and moved to Minneapolis with a couple buddies. One of my buddies had always been a drinker and partier so one of the first things he did was stock our fridge with beer. One Friday night I thought I would try one. I got drunk, had a great time, and I have never looked back. Ever since then I have been a heavy drinker. Vodka 7 […]
READ MOREOsteoporosis Drug Fosamax May Increase Risk of Developing Atrial Fibrillation
There was a study done in 2008 that was conducted at the University of Washington. It was led by researcher, Susan Heckbert. The study found that women using Fosamax were nearly twice as likely to develop atrial fibrillation than those who had never used it. A recent study was published in Chest Journal, the official publication of the American College of Chest Physicians. The objective of the study was to evaluate the risk of serious atrial fibrillation (episodes that required […]
READ MOREWatchman Heart Device Reduces Risk of Strokes in Atrial Fibrillation Patients
One of the primary dangers for atrial fibrillation patients is the high risk of strokes. With an irregular heartbeat, which is the hallmark for afib patients, blood can pool and form a clot. The clot can then dislodge and travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Right now medications, specifically blood thinners, are the only options doctors and patients have to combat the risk of strokes. Unfortunately, these medications come with their own potential side effects and risks. The […]
READ MOREA Simple Blood Donation Reveals My Second Afib Episode (Possibly)
In late June/early July of 2005 I went to give blood for the first time. Since this was my first time, I was a little nervous because I HATE needles and I thought it would be painful. My wife, who was with me, assured me it was no big deal. We both sat down and as the nurses began outfitting us for the donation, my nurse paused, turned to another nurse and asked her if she could check my heart […]
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