According to a new study, AF patients are more likely to develop problems with their memory and general thinking processes.

“Problems with memory and thinking are common for people as they get older. Our study shows that, on average, problems with memory and thinking may start earlier or get worse more quickly in people who have atrial fibrillation,” said study author Evan L. Thacker, Ph.D., of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “This means that heart health is an important factor related to brain health.”

The study was conducted by researchers analyzing information collected from more than 5,100 participating AF patients aged 65 and older who took part in the Cardiovascular Health Study. It is worth noting that the patients did not have a history of AF, but were monitored for about seven years and taking part in a 100-point memory test on an annual basis. What researchers found was that 11 percent of the patients developed AF, and those were the patients whose memory had begun to decline. In addition, they found that age was a factor in the results.

Basically, the patients who were age 80 to age 85 experienced a 6 point score reduction if they didn’t have AF, but the AF patients experienced a 10 point score reduction. The patients who were aged 75 or older experienced a score reduction of 3-4 points if they had AF.

“This suggests that, on average, people with atrial fibrillation may be more likely to develop cognitive impairment or dementia at earlier ages than people with no history of atrial fibrillation,” he said.

This study showed that AF is a factor in terms of memory loss in older patients. AF is a condition that is characterized by patients experiencing irregular and/or fluttering heart beats. The condition is generally treated with anticoagulant medications like Multaq. But Multaq, which is made by Sanofi-Aventis, has been linked to serious side effects, including a worsening of the heart condition, liver failure and lung toxicity. It is for this reason that the FDA has recommended that doctors only prescribe Multaq if all other medications fail to work.

If you or a loved one has suffered from liver failure or a worsening heart condition after being treated with Multaq, contact the attorneys at Greg Jones today for a free consultation. I am experienced at fighting Multaq lawsuits and may be able to help you recover money for your injuries.