Atrial Fibrillation
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Management
Prevention
What to Expect
Living Well
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm condition where the heartbeat becomes irregular and often faster than normal. Instead of beating in a steady, coordinated way, the upper chambers of your heart send uneven electrical signals. This can cause the heart to beat out of sync and pump blood less efficiently.
Types of Atrial Fibrillation
Clinicians group Afib into types based on how often it happens and how long it lasts.
Paroxysmal AFib comes and goes. Episodes start suddenly and stop on their own, usually within a few hours or days.
Persistent AFib lasts longer than a week and does not stop on its own.
Long-standing persistent AFib lasts for a year or longer.
Permanent AFib is when you and your clinician decide not to try to restore a normal heart rhythm. Care focuses instead on controlling heart rate and lowering the risk of complications.
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Symptoms and Causes
People experience AFib in different ways. Some notice symptoms quickly, while others have no noticeable symptoms. In some cases, AFib is found during a routine exam or heart test. Symptoms may be occasional or ongoing, depending on the type of AFib and how the heart responds to the irregular rhythm.
Symptoms may include:
A fluttering, racing, or irregular heartbeat
Unusual tiredness or fatigue
Shortness of breath, especially with activity
Dizziness or light-headedness
Chest discomfort
Feeling weak or less able to exercise
Diagnosis and Tests
AFib happens when the heart’s electrical system does not work normally. It can be triggered by changes in the heart, strain on the heart, or other health conditions.
Factors that can increase risk include:
High blood pressure
Heart disease, such as coronary artery disease or heart valve problems
Heart failure or previous heart surgery
Diabetes
Thyroid disorders
Sleep apnea
Lung disease
Excess alcohol use
Older age
Often, several factors play a role.
Diagnosis
AFib is diagnosed using a combination of symptoms, medical history, and tests that record the heart’s electrical activity. Because AFib can come and go, diagnosis may require monitoring over time.
Common tests include:
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the heart’s electrical activity and can show an irregular rhythm
Heart monitoring devices: Portable monitors worn for days or weeks to track heart rhythm during daily activities
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that shows how well the heart is pumping and whether structural problems are present
Blood tests: Used to check for conditions that may trigger or worsen AFib
Identifying AFib helps guide treatment decisions and reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment
AFib is manageable, and many people live well with the condition. Treatment depends on the type of AFib, symptoms, and overall health.
Treatment often aims to:
Control how fast the heart beats
Improve or maintain a regular heart rhythm when appropriate
Lower the risk of stroke and other complications
Medications are commonly used to help manage heart rate, maintain rhythm, or reduce the risk of blood clots. Some people may also benefit from procedures to help restore or control heart rhythm, especially if symptoms are not well controlled with medications.
Living WIth/Prevention
Living with AFib often means learning how to manage symptoms, treatment, and daily routines. Staying physically active in ways that feel safe, taking medications as prescribed, managing stress, and keeping regular follow-up appointments can help support heart and vascular health and maintain quality of life.
Take Control of Your Heart Health
If you’re experiencing symptoms of atrial fibrillation or have concerns about your heart rhythm, don’t wait to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.