Study: ‘Heart flutter’ linked to dementia

A new study reveals how a rapid and irregular heart beat can directly impact your brain health.

An irregular and fast heart beat is referred to as atrial fibrillation, or heart flutter, and new research found that could also be a sign of dementia.

Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University researchers said the lack of blood flow to the brain may be a factor.

As people age, the chance of developing atrial fibrillation increases.

The study found that taking blood thinners may actually decrease the risk of dementia.

Del Sol Medical Center cardiologist Dr. Oscar Munoz said there should be more efforts to put patients on blood thinners if they have an irregular heartbeat.

The long term effects are concerning, Munoz said.

“That shortens your life. People fear dementia more than cancer because you won’t be yourself. You may get to the point where you don’t recognize your relatives,” Munoz said.

To read the entire study, click here.