Feel The Pulse is latest message from Irish Heart supported by Pfizer and Bristol Myers Squibb, to drive public awareness of the importance of a regular pulse check to detect Ireland’s most common irregular heartbeat (Atrial Fibrillation) which increases risk of stroke.
Over 40,000 adults aged over 50 already have Atrial Fibrillation (AF), but many of them do not know it.
People with Atrial Fibrillation are 5 times more likely to have a stroke.
But don’t worry. AF is treatable and a simple pulse check can help detect it.
This October, Irish Heart is driving the public to learn how to ‘feel the pulse’ twice a day for two weeks, to detect the irregular heart rate and prevent stroke.
Launching ‘Feel The Pulse’ in Dublin, Minister for Health Simon Harris TD, was first in line to experience the reality of AF through a virtual headset which showed how AF can cause clots resulting in stroke when they block an artery in the brain.
Dr Angie Brown Medical Director of Irish Heart and consultant cardiologist said: “At Irish Heart our goal is straightforward – to save more lives. By alerting the public to risks like AF, more people can take action to prevent it.
“The recommended normal heart rate is between 60 and 100 heartbeats per minute but some people can have heart rates over 100. And you should see your doctor if you have a persistent heart rate above 120 beats per minute or below 40 beats per minute.
“Getting to know your pulse is the first step to help detect which can then be diagnosed with your doctor.”
Pfizer and Bristol Myers Squibb are proud to support this important public awareness campaign
Learn how to take your pulse today with today. The greater recognition and treatment of AF can reduce stroke risk by 65%.
Sign up for free text message reminders to take your pulse twice a day for two weeks. (Text PULSE to 50100 to register). T&C’s apply.
