Overview

A healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and conduct a physical examination. They’ll also ask you questions, such as:

  • Have you had any recent contact with wild mice or rats?
  • Have you recently camped or stayed in a cabin?
  • Do you live or work in wooded areas?
  • Have you noticed any mouse or rat poop around your home or job site?

This information will let the provider know to test for HPS and other diseases that mice and rats carry.

What tests will be done to diagnose hantavirus pulmonary syndrome?

A healthcare provider can diagnose HPS with a blood test.

During a blood test, they’ll use a thin needle (about the size of a small earring) to withdraw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. Then, they’ll examine your blood under a microscope to help identify virus antibodies (proteins). Your immune system creates antibodies to help fight infections.

Blood tests can also reveal signs of HPS. These signs may include larger-than-normal white blood cells (part of your body’s immune system that helps fight infections) and an abnormally low amount of platelets (a substance that helps your blood clot). A provider may also check the oxygen levels in your blood.

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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.


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Living with atrial fibrillation?

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