Virginia Thornley, M.D., Neurologist
May 11, 2020
The CHA2DS2-VASc score comprises of:
1-Congestive Heart Failure
2-Hypertension
3-Age below 65
4-Diabetes
5-Stroke (2)
6-Vascular such as myocardial infarction
7-Age above 65 (2)
8-Sex
Why is it important?
In neurology, if somebody has a stroke a work-up is done to determine treatment. In the setting of atrial fibrillation which is an irregular rhythm the next step is determined.
The CHA2Ds2-VASc score determines which patients receive powerful medications called anti-coagulants to thin the blood to avoid any future strokes. Each item is scored as 1 point except stroke and age above 2 which is scored as 2 points. A score of 0 means no treatment is needed. A score of 1 or more in men and 2 or more in women means treatment is needed.
Sometimes the medication can be so strong it places people at risk for potential complications such as hemorrhage which is why we have to be very careful when we select patients for certain powerful treatments.
How can you change your future score if you develop stroke in the setting of atrial fibrillation in the future
Some factors are uncontrollable such as age and sex. However, some factors are related to a combination of genetics & lifestyle. This is why as early as now it best to be the healthiest you can to avoid problems down the road.
One of the best ways to avoid medications is prevention. Healthy living includes eating fruits & vegetables, walking and talking.
In other words:
Cut out processed food.
Cut out artificial food.
Eat what grows.
Keep mentally stimulated.
Keep physically active.
In a cohort of 8962 patients, with a score of 0, there was low to no risk of stroke in those with anti-coagulant, anti-platelet, and no treatment (1).
Reference
1. Taillandier, S., Olesen, J.B., Clementry, N., Lagranade, I., Lip, G.Y., Fauchier, L. Prognosis in patients with atrial fibrillation and CHA2DS2-Vasc score = 0 in a community-based cohort study. J. Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. 2012, July, 23(7):708-13.
Disclaimer: This is information only not medical advice. Talk to your doctor.
Neurologybuzz.com