Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is the most common irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and causes about one in seven strokes. Strokes caused by complications from Afib also tend to be more severe.
Understanding your risks and speaking with your provider can help diagnose Afib earlier and prevent future strokes.
Check your risk
Consider your health history and answer the following questions to better understand your risk of stroke if you have been diagnosed with Afib.
Afib and Stroke Risk Questionnaire
Risk Factors
Yes
No
Congestive heart failure Do you have congestive heart failure?
+1
Hypertension Do you have high blood pressure?
+1
Age Are you 75 years or older? Are you 65 to 74 years old?
+2 +1
Diabetes Do you have diabetes?
+1
Stroke Have you had a stroke, or do you have signs of having a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “warning stroke?”
+1
Cardiovascular disease Do you have a history of vascular disease, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), heart attack, coronary artery disease (CAD), or aortic plaque?
+1
Biological sex Are you female?
+1
TOTAL POINTS
Explaining the scores
0: People who score a zero usually don’t need medication.
1: People who score a one may or may not need medication.
2-3+: Medication is recommended for men who score a two or more, and women who sore a three or more.
Verify your risk
Always check with your provider to verify your risk score. No matter your score, it’s important to make decisions with your health care provider to evaluate all potential risks.
If you’re concerned about Afib or are experiencing symptoms, you should be evaluated by a cardiologist who specializes in heart arrhythmias.
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