Heart problems are common in people who have astroke.
Or, the heart problem may cause a stroke, such as when atrial fibrillation produces anembolusto the brain.
Additionally, a stroke can precipitate a heart problem.
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In the heart,coronary artery disease (CAD)leads to a heart attack.
Most people who have survived a stroke or a heart attack need to take measures to reduce atherosclerotic disease.
This includes medication and lifestyle modification.
Stroke and Heart Failure
Stroke can be associated with new or worsening heart failure.
There are several reasons for this.
A stroke can trigger a dramatic increase in adrenaline levels and other hormones.
This condition can produce episodes of severe, but temporary, heart failure.
Additionally, if a stroke is accompanied by myocardial infarction, heart failure can develop as a result.
Stroke and Cardiac Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is an irregular heart rate or rhythm.
An arrhythmia can cause a stroke, and a stroke can also worsen or cause arrhythmias.
Life-threatening arrhythmias may also occur, including ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest.
Significant bradycardia (slow heart rate) can also occur after a stroke.
Summary
Serious heart problems are common after a stroke.
2016;47(3):895-900. doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.115.012004
