Cardiologists Dr. Anne Curtis and Dr. Hiroko Beck explain how non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) is treated and managed. There are three key components for the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation: blood clot prevention, heart rate control, and heart rhythm control. To prevent blood clots from forming, doctors will prescribe blood-thinning medicines called anticoagulants. To slow the heart rate down, doctors will prescribe medications that help bring the heart rate to a normal level. To reset and maintain normal heart rhythm, doctors will prescribe medicines or advanced options like catheter ablation to control the heart's rhythm.

In this video, cardiologists Dr. Anne Curtis and Dr. Hiroko Beck explain how a stroke is treated and managed. To treat a stroke caused by a blood clot or blockage, doctors must urgently restore blood flow to the brain by opening up the blockage or getting rid of the clot. Sometimes a stent will be used to open up a blockage and restore blood flow. If there is a blockage in the carotid artery then surgery will be performed to open the blockage. In addition, antiplatelet medications (such as Aspirin or Aspirin-like drugs) are used to prevent future strokes. A stroke is a medical emergency. If you or someone with you experiences any stroke symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.