Adult Still Disease

Overview

The symptoms of adult-onset Still’s disease resemble many other conditions. And as it’s rare, a healthcare provider might not suspect it right away. It can be a process to get to the right diagnosis.

After reviewing your symptoms and health history, your provider will order blood tests and imaging tests to learn more about your condition. Imaging tests, like X-rays or an ultrasound, can show inflammation and swelling in your joints. Blood tests can help rule out other conditions. If your blood test shows high levels of ferritin along with a high white blood cell count, these signs point to AOSD.

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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

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.