Overview
A diagnosis can be difficult to make because the three conditions (SLE, scleroderma and polymyositis) that can be seen in MCTD usually occur one after the other over a long period of time, rather than at the same time. It may take several years to make an accurate diagnosis of MCTD.
There are four features that point to MCTD rather than another connective tissue disorder:
- High concentrations in blood tests of a particular antibody called anti-U1-RNP (ribonucleoprotein).
- An absence of severe kidney and central nervous system problems often found in SLE patients.
- Severe arthritis and pulmonary hypertension, which may not be found in people with either SLE or scleroderma.
- Raynaud phenomenon, and swollen hands or puffy fingers, which occur in only about 25% of people with SLE.
Products & Services
A Book: Future Care
Symptoms
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.
Print
Living with atrial fibrillation?
Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Mayo Clinic Connect, a patient community.
Heart Rhythm Conditions Discussions
See more discussions
Comments are closed for this post.
Related
Advertisement
Clinic Press
Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press.