Pulse Day: a simple gesture to save lives

On the occasion of Pulse Day, an international awareness day dedicated to heart rhythm disorders, Dr. Amraoui, cardiologist and heart rhythm specialist, proudly took part in this vital campaign.

The goal: to encourage everyone to take a simple yet powerful step, check your pulse to help detect heart rhythm abnormalities early.

To lead by example, Dr. Amraoui shared a video of herself taking her own pulse, inviting patients, colleagues, and the wider community to join the movement.

A powerful message underpinned this initiative: Listening to your heart can save lives.

Why take your pulse?

An irregular heartbeat can be an early sign of atrial fibrillation (AF), a common but often silent arrhythmia that can lead to serious complications like stroke if left undiagnosed.

Atrial fibrillation in figures:

• Over 1 million people are affected in France alone

• AF increases the risk of ischemic stroke fivefold

• It can be completely asymptomatic, making early detection crucial

Risk factors:

• Aging

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Heart disease

• Sleep apnea

• Chronic stress or anxiety

• Excessive alcohol or stimulant use
  

🚨 What warning signs to look out for?

• Rapid, irregular heartbeats (palpitations)

• Unexplained shortness of breath

• Ongoing fatigue

• Reduced exercise tolerance

• Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses

• Or sometimes… no symptoms at all

💓 A healthy heart starts with one simple action: take your pulse.