Stroke prevention is often an important component of a comprehensive cardiac treatment plan. This is because a person who has an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) is likely to have an increased chance of experiencing a stroke – a potentially life-threatening condition in which the blood supply to the brain is interrupted.

There are several ways in which an arrhythmia can lead to a stroke. In people who have atrial fibrillation, for instance, blood clots can form in the top chamber of the heart. As a blood clot is pumped away from the heart, it can become lodged in an artery and potentially cause an ischemic stroke if the blood supply is blocked.

For this reason, it’s important for people who have a known diagnosis of arrhythmia – be it atrial fibrillation or any other type – to take proactive stroke prevention measures. At Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health, Paul Z. Gerczuk, M.D., provides his patients with individualized recommendations to accompany their arrhythmia treatment. Stroke prevention measures may include:

  • Developing a treatment regimen for co-existing chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol
  • Participating in a regular exercise program and maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Eating a heart-healthy diet
  • Discontinuing the use of (or continuing to actively avoid) tobacco products

Because each individual has highly unique stroke prevention needs, Dr. Gerczuk proudly works one-on-one with every patient to determine the best approach to treatment. Dr. Gerczuk specializes in a variety of medical and procedural therapies, making customized recommendations based on each patient’s diagnosis, symptoms, lifestyle, age, and other pertinent factors.

For more information about stroke prevention and arrhythmia treatment, contact Dr. Gerczuk at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health today.

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