Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Overview

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a type of neurofibromatosis, which is a condition that affects your skin and nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves). NF1 affects how often certain cells grow in your body. This leads to the formation of benign (noncancerous) tumors. These specifically are nerve tumors called neurofibromas. Tumors form on the nerves in your brain, spinal cord and skin. The most common symptom of NF1 is multiple café au lait spots. Symptoms can also affect your eyes and bones, too.

You might hear your healthcare provider refer to NF1 as Von Recklinghausen disease.

How common is neurofibromatosis type 1?

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is the most common form of neurofibromatosis. It accounts for about 96% of all cases of the condition. NF1 affects an estimated 1 in 3,000 births worldwide annually.

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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

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