Adults are being urged to check their pulse for an irregular heartbeat, as this can significantly increase the risk of stroke.

More than 40,000 adults over the age of 50 have atrial fibrillation (AF), which causes an irregular and rapid heart beat. This can make the heart less efficient at pumping blood around the body, which can lead to palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness, angina and the development of blood clots.

However, there may be no symptoms, therefore a person may be unaware that they have it. Those with the condition have a five-fold increased risk of suffering a stroke.

In fact, an estimated 8,500 strokes occur in Ireland every year and around one-third of these are linked to AF.

However, the condition can be detected by a simple pulse check. A normal pulse is 60-100 beats per minute in a regular rhythm. If your pulse is slow and irregular, fast and racing, consistently above 120 beats per minute or consistently below 40 beats per minute, you should see your doctor.

This October, the heart and stroke charity, Irish Heart, is calling on adults to 'Feel the Pulse' twice a day for a two-week period.

"AF is a very common cause of disabling stroke in Ireland, responsible for one third of all strokes here. Getting to know your pulse is the first step to help detect the condition which can then be diagnosed with your doctor," explained consultant cardiologist and Irish Heart medical director, Dr Angie Brown.

She emphasised that greater recognition and treatment of AF can reduce the risk of stroke by 65%.

Irish Heart will be running a national radio awareness campaign throughout the month of October, which will encourage adults to learn how to take their pulse at www.irishheart.ie/feelthepulse

People can also sign up for free text reminders to take their pulse twice a day for two weeks. To do this, text PULSE to 50100 to register.

If anyone has any concerns about AF, or any other heart or stroke-related issues, they can talk to an Irish Heart nurse in confidence at 1800 25 25 50.