Autoimmune Pancreatitis

Many tests are necessary to diagnose autoimmune pancreatitis and rule out pancreatic cancer. Your evaluation may include:

Blood tests. These tests detect abnormal levels of IgG4. They may also check liver function and the levels of certain types of blood cells.
Imaging tests. These tests check the size of your pancreas and detect signs of scarring and narrowed ducts. Imaging tests may include CT scans and MRIs.
Biopsy. This involves taking a sample of pancreas tissue and examining it under a microscope. A biopsy is usually obtained via a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure called endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). During this procedure, a provider advances a long flexible tube with a light ultrasound at the end into your stomach and intestine to visualize your pancreas. They then get a biopsy through your stomach or intestine. Sometimes, surgeons may need to perform a procedure through a small incision in your skin (laparoscopy) to obtain a biopsy specimen.
Corticosteroid trial. This can help confirm a diagnosis. You take a short-term dose of steroids and undergo lab tests to see if it lowers IgG4 levels and improves imaging findings.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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