by Ilse Romahn
(29.11.2022) According to estimates by the German Heart Foundation, between 1.5 and 2 million people in Germany suffer from atrial fibrillation, the most common persistent cardiac arrhythmia. It can lead to strokes. Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism and chronic kidney failure increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
For the Heart Weeks 2022, the IPF will provide information on how laboratory tests help to adapt the therapy in the best possible way.
identify risk factors
A whole range of diseases can contribute to the heart getting out of rhythm. Some of these can be easily identified by laboratory tests. These include elevated blood lipid levels, diabetes and pre-diabetes, chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. Blood and urine tests, for example as part of the health check-up, show the status of blood fat and blood sugar levels and can provide indications of kidney diseases. If other risk factors such as older age or obesity are added, treatment guidelines recommend a heart examination.
examine blood clotting
Depending on the severity of the disease, the risk of suffering a stroke due to the disrupted blood flow increases. This is why anticoagulant drugs are often used to treat atrial fibrillation. Doctors use blood tests to check whether these are necessary: they have the coagulation properties of the blood examined in the laboratory. The so-called coagulation factors are evaluated. Modern anticoagulant drugs prevent the formation of thrombosis and no longer need to be checked regularly. Special laboratory tests are available to check the coagulation status in emergency situations or before an operation.
The IPF leaflet “On the trail of cardiovascular diseases” contains further information. It can be free at www.vorsorge-online.de downloaded or ordered. Another order option: IPF-Versandservice, Postfach 12 44, 63552 Gelnhausen. Be sure to include title, name and full address.