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What is atrial fibrillation and how is it treated?

  • By MIKE STOBBE - AP Medical Writer

Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is becoming more common, but doctors say treatments are improving. The condition is a quivering or irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke and heart failure. Experts say more than 10 million Americans have it, mostly older adults. Symptoms include a pounding heartbeat and shortness of breath. Smartwatches and other devices are helping with diagnosis. Causes include genetics, high blood pressure and stress. Treatments range from medications to procedures like ablation. Experts recommend a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk.

ICE claim that a man shattered his skull running into wall triggers tension at a Minnesota hospital
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AP Wire

ICE claim that a man shattered his skull running into wall triggers tension at a Minnesota hospital

  • By JACK BROOK, JIM MUSTIAN and MICHAEL BIESECKER - Associated Press
  • Updated

Nurses in Minneapolis doubted federal immigration officers' claims about a Mexican immigrant's severe injuries. ICE agents said Alberto Castañeda Mondragón ran headfirst into a wall while handcuffed. But hospital staff found his injuries inconsistent with that account. The seemingly implausible explanation from ICE is just one example of recent encounters that have undermined the agency’s credibility at Minneapolis hospitals and contributed to mounting friction between medical staff and immigration officers. Workers at the Hennepin County facility say ICE officers have restrained patients in defiance of hospital rules and stayed at their sides for days. The agents have also lingered around the campus and pressed people for proof of citizenship.