Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of serious heart arrhythmia, characterized by irregular and often rapid heartbeats. It occurs when the atria—the upper chambers of the heart—quiver rather than contract effectively, leading to poor blood flow. AFib increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications. At Premier Cardiology, our electrophysiology team specializes in diagnosing and managing AFib with personalized care plans, advanced diagnostics, and modern treatment options to restore rhythm and protect heart health.
Causes and Risk Factors
AFib may result from multiple factors affecting the heart’s electrical system:
- High Blood Pressure (High Blood Pressure) – Leading risk factor
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – Can damage heart tissue and trigger arrhythmias
- Heart failure
- Valvular heart disease – Especially mitral valve disorders
- Previous heart attack (Myocardial Infarction)
- Thyroid disorders and other metabolic conditions
- Obesity and sleep apnea
- Excessive alcohol or stimulant use
- Age – Risk increases with age, particularly over 65
- Family history of AFib
Symptoms of AFib
Symptoms vary; some patients may be asymptomatic, while others experience significant discomfort:
- Palpitations – Rapid, irregular, or fluttering heartbeat (Tachycardia)
- Fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting (Syncope)
- Chest discomfort (Angina / Chest Pain)
- Anxiety or feelings of unease
Because AFib can be intermittent, symptoms may come and go, making monitoring crucial.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing AFib involves detecting irregular heart rhythms and identifying underlying causes.
- EKG – Records heart rhythm to identify AFib
- Holter Monitor – Continuous monitoring for 24–48 hours (Arrhythmia Diagnostics)
- Event Monitor – Captures episodes of irregular rhythm during symptoms
- Loop Recorder – Long-term monitoring for intermittent AFib
- Echocardiogram – Assesses heart structure and function
- Blood tests – Check for thyroid disorders, electrolytes, and heart function
Treatment Options
AFib management focuses on controlling heart rate, restoring normal rhythm, and preventing complications such as stroke.
Medications
- Rate control – Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to slow heart rate
- Rhythm control – Anti-arrhythmic medications to maintain normal rhythm
- Anticoagulants – Reduce the risk of stroke by preventing blood clots
Interventional Procedures
- Cardioversion – Electrical or chemical shock to restore normal rhythm
- Catheter Ablation – Destroys abnormal electrical pathways causing AFib
- Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Closure – Reduces stroke risk in patients who cannot take anticoagulants
- Pacemaker Implantation – In select patients with slow-fast heart rhythms
Preventing Complications
Early diagnosis, treatment adherence, and management of underlying conditions like High Blood Pressure, Obesity, Heart Failure, and CAD are essential to reduce the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist ensures optimal long-term outcomes for patients with AFib.