Overview
Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and a pelvic exam. They’ll also ask you about your health history. Knowing about your typical menstrual cycle, previous pregnancies or use of birth control is helpful to your provider in diagnosing POI.
Next, they will likely order blood tests to measure levels of certain hormones in your body. These include follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen and prolactin.
Other tests your provider may use include:
- A blood test (karyotype testing) to look for genetic disorders.
- A pelvic ultrasound (to look at your ovaries and uterus).
- A pregnancy test.
- Antibody tests to check for autoimmune disorders.
Providers diagnose POI if you’re younger than 40 and:
- You have no periods or abnormal periods.
- Lab tests show your hormone levels are that of a person in menopause.
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Symptoms
When to see a doctor
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.
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