Atrial Fibrillation - Check your pulse
NHS Grampian in partnership with the Stroke Association are raising awareness of Atrial fibrillation to help reduce the risk of strokes for those at risk.
PLEASE NOTE: This pilot project is only aimed at residents aged 40 years and over who are registered with a GP at one of the following GP practices:
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Auchenblae |
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Ellon |
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Fyvie/Oldmeldrum |
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Haddo |
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Inverbervie |
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Laurencekirk |
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Portlethen |
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Stonehaven |
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Turriff |
If successful NHS Grampian will consider rolling this project out to other areas of Grampian.
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation or AF is a rhythm of the heart that causes an irregular heartbeat. You can sometimes experience palpitations (feelings of having a fast- beating, fluttering or pounding heart) with AF. Stroke risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol.
Who can get AF?
AF can happen to anyone, including people who are otherwise fit and well. It usually affects adults, and your risk goes up with age. It's more common in men, and people with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, overactive thyroid, and high blood pressure. It's also more common in smokers.
How to check for Atrial Fibrillation?
We recommend that you check your pulse from time to time as shown in the Stroke Association video below.
What to do if you notice an irregular pulse or heart palpitations, or you’re just not sure if it is normal?
We would suggest you do one of the following:
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You can book an appointment from Tuesday 01 April - Monday 31 June 2025 with the Stonehaven and Inverurie Vaccination Centres to have your pulse checked by a nurse. They will also check your blood pressure if you don’t know what your blood pressure is.
Stonehaven Vaccination Centre - Telephone: 07435 914430 Monday to Friday 9am-4pm
Inverurie Vaccination Centre - Telephone: 07435 916827 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am -4pm or Thursday 12.30pm -7.30pm for Inverurie.
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Alternatively, raise it with your GP when next you are in for an appointment for something else.
If however, you have fast palpitations, sudden shortness of breath or chest pain, then contact 999 for an ambulance.
For further information on Atrial Fibrillation visit: Atrial fibrillation | Stroke Association