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Understanding Irregular Heartbeat and Eliquis’s Role in Treatment

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition in which the heart beats irregularly or rapidly. This can result in fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain. If left untreated, it increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other serious health problems. Fortunately, there are several AFib treatments available, including Eliquis.

Eliquis is quite expensive (over $500) and can be challenging for people to afford their monthly prescriptions. Finding a patient assistance program, Elequis coupon provider, or an Eliquis manufacturer discount is easy.

In this article, we’ll look at what causes AFib, its symptoms and risks, and how Eliquis can help manage irregular heartbeats.

Understanding Irregular Heartbeat (Atrial Fibrillation)

To comprehend irregular heartbeats, it is necessary to first comprehend how the heart normally functions. The right atrium, left atrium, right ventricle, and left ventricle are the heart’s four chambers that work together to pump blood throughout the body. The right and left atriums collect blood from the body and the lungs, respectively, and pump it into the ventricles. The ventricles pump the blood out to the rest of the body.

This process occurs in a steady, coordinated rhythm in a normal, healthy heart. Depending on the age and physical activity, the heart beats between 60 and 100 times per minute. Atrial fibrillatio, occurs when the electrical signals that control the heart’s rhythm become disorganized, causing the atria to quiver or fluttey. This can cause an irregular or rapid heartbeat andimpairsr the heart’s ability to pump blood.

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation. These can include:

  • Age: The risk of developing AFib increases with age, and is most common in people over 60.
  • High blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage the heart and increase the risk of developing AFib.
  • Heart disease: Conditions like coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, and heart failure can all increase the risk of AFib.
  • Thyroid problems: An overactive or underactive thyroid gland can disrupt the heart’s rhythm and increase the risk of AFib.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing AFib.
  • Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a condition where a person stops breathing momentarily while sleeping, and can increase the risk of AFib.
  • Mental Health: These physical symptoms may lead to depression and anxiety.

Symptoms and Risks of Irregular Heartbeat

The symptoms of atrial fibrillation can vary from person to person, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, some common symptoms of AFib can include:

  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Palpitations, or a feeling that the heart is skipping or racing

While some people with AFib may not experience any symptoms, the condition can still increase the risk of several serious health problems. One of the most significant risks associated with AFib is the increased risk of stroke. When the heart beats irregularly, blood can pool in the atria and form clots. These clots can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke. In fact, people with AFib are five times more likely to have a stroke than people without the condition.

Other potential risks of AFib can include:

Heart failure: Over time, an irregular heartbeat can weaken the heart and lead to heart failure, a condition where the heart can no longer pump blood effectively.

Chronic fatigue: The symptoms of AFib can cause chronic fatigue or exhaustion, which can impact a person’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

AFib can increase the risk of other heart-related problems, such as heart attack and sudden cardiac death, in addition to the abovementioned risks. This is why, if you suspect you have an irregular heartbeat or any associated symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Managing Irregular Heartbeat with Eliquis

While there is no cure for AFib, several treatments can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications. One of the most commonly prescribed treatments for AFib is a type of medication called anticoagulants, which work to prevent blood clots from forming in the atria.

Eliquis is one such medication that is commonly prescribed to manage AFib. Eliquis, which is also known by its generic name apixaban, is a type of anticoagulant that works by blocking a specific protein in the blood that is involved in the clotting process. By blocking this protein, Eliquis can help prevent the formation of blood clots in the atria, reducing the risk of stroke and other complications.

Eliquis is usually taken once or twice daily, depending on your doctor’s instructions. It can be taken with or without food and should be taken at the same time every day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in the bloodstream. Eliquis should be taken exactly as your doctor prescribes, and you should always consult with your doctor before taking it.

While Eliquis is generally safe and well-tolerated, but some potential side effects are associated with the medication. These can include:

  • Bleeding: Because Eliquis works to prevent blood clots, it can also increase the risk of bleeding. This can include nosebleeds, bruising, bleeding from the gums, and more serious bleeding like gastrointestinal bleeding or bleeding in the brain.
  • Anemia: Some people may experience a drop in red blood cells while taking Eliquis, which can cause anemia. Symptoms of anemia can include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, people may experience an allergic reaction to Eliquis. 
  • Hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat are all symptoms of an allergic reaction.

If you experience any of these side effects while taking Eliquis, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Aside from medication like Eliquis, there are several other lifestyle changes and treatments that can help with AFib management. These are some examples:

  1. Managing underlying health conditions: If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or other underlying health conditions, it’s important to work with your doctor to manage these conditions to help reduce the risk of developing AFib.
  2. Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help support heart health and reduce the risk of developing AFib.
  3. Getting regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help strengthen the heart and reduce the risk of developing AFib.
  4. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine: Because both alcohol and caffeine can cause AFib in some people, it’s important to limit or avoid them if they seem to aggravate your symptoms.
  5. Managing stress: Because stress and anxiety can cause AFib in some people, it’s critical to find healthy ways to cope, such as through exercise, meditation, or counseling.

Irregular heartbeat, also known as atrial fibrillation, is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms as well as an increased risk of serious health problems such as stroke and heart failure. Fortunately, several treatments are available to help manage the condition and lower the risk of complications. Eliquis is one such medication frequently prescribed to treat AFib and works by preventing the formation of arrhythmias.

Piyushi

Blogger By Passion, Programmer By Love and Marketing Beast By Birth.

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