Atrial Fibrillation Detection (Afib); Important Facts About Atrial Fibrillation - Microlife WatchBP Home A Instructions Manual

6. Atrial fibrillation detection (Afib)

This device is designed to screen for atrial fibrillation during blood
pressure measurements both in «USUAL» and «DIAG.» mode.*
If atrial fibrillation is detected during all readings of the triple measure-
ments in «USUAL» mode or all four readings of one day in
«DIAG.»mode, the Afib icon is displayed.
* Joseph Wiesel, et al. Detection of Atrial Fibrillation Using a Modified
Microlife Blood Pressure Monitor. American Journal of Hypertension
2009; 22, 8, 848–852.
WatchBP Home A

Important facts about atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm problem and a common
cause of major strokes. It affects more than 2 million people in North
America. It is more common in old age and found in 10% of people
over 80 years old.
About 20% of all strokes are caused by atrial fibrillation. The elderly,
or those with high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease are more
likely to get a stroke if they have atrial fibrillation.
Atrial fibrillation is a rhythm problem that can last from a few minutes,
to days or weeks and even years. Atrial fibrillation can lead to the
formation of blood clots in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria).
These clots can break off and flow to the brain causing stroke. The
use of blood thinners, such as warfarin, can lower the risk of stroke
in patients with atrial fibrillation.
A doctor can confirm the presence of atrial fibrillation by using an
EKG. Atrial fibrillation can sometimes come and go. So a doctor may
not see its symptoms on regularly scheduled visits.
One sign of atrial fibrillation is palpitations. But, many people don't
feel anything. These people can still get a stroke and should be
checked for atrial fibrillation regularly. Diagnosing atrial fibrillation
earlier and followed by treatment can lower the chances of getting a
stroke.
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