Atrial Fibrillation Specialist

What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, occurs when electrical signals in the heart's upper chambers become disorganized, producing an irregular heartbeat. The heart rate may be fast, normal, or slow. Episodes may come and go or persist.

AFib can allow blood clots to form in the heart and travel to the brain, causing a stroke. It can also contribute to heart failure. Treatment addresses these risks as well as how you feel.

What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?

Symptoms may include a fluttering or racing heartbeat, fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest discomfort. Some people have no noticeable symptoms and learn they have AFib during an examination or heart rhythm recording.

Call 911 for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or possible stroke symptoms such as sudden face drooping, arm weakness, or difficulty speaking. Do not wait for an office appointment. Contact your care team promptly for new or worsening symptoms that are not an emergency.

What increases my risk of atrial fibrillation?

Age, high blood pressure, heart valve disease, coronary artery disease, heart failure, obesity, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, and alcohol use can contribute to AFib. Your cardiologist reviews your medical history and possible triggers to guide care.

How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records the heart's electrical activity and can confirm AFib. If episodes are intermittent, a wearable medical monitor may record your rhythm over a longer period. Share smartwatch recordings with your clinician, but do not rely on a watch alert alone to diagnose or rule out AFib.

Your evaluation may also include an echocardiogram to assess heart structure and function, and blood tests for conditions such as thyroid disease. Additional testing depends on your symptoms and medical history.

How is atrial fibrillation treated?

Your cardiologist develops a plan with you based on your symptoms, stroke risk, heart health, and preferences. Treatment may include:

Reducing stroke risk

An anticoagulant, often called a blood thinner, may be recommended based on your individual stroke and bleeding risks. Aspirin is not a substitute for anticoagulation when an anticoagulant is indicated. Do not stop an anticoagulant because your heartbeat feels normal or after a rhythm procedure unless your treating clinician instructs you to do so.

Controlling heart rate and rhythm

Medicines may slow the heart rate or help maintain a normal rhythm. Restoring rhythm may involve medication or electrical cardioversion. Discussing rhythm control early can be appropriate; your team will explain the options and any preparation needed.

Catheter ablation

Catheter ablation treats small areas of heart tissue involved in abnormal electrical signals. It may be considered when medicines are ineffective or unsuitable, and can be an initial treatment option for selected patients. This catheter-based procedure is different from open-heart surgery. An electrophysiology specialist can discuss expected benefits and risks.

What lifestyle changes can help?

Managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising safely, treating sleep apnea when present, avoiding tobacco, and reducing or avoiding alcohol can support AFib care. Routine caffeine avoidance is not necessary for everyone with AFib, but reducing caffeine may help if it triggers your symptoms. Follow separate preparation instructions if you are scheduled for a stress test.

For questions or an appointment, call SWICFT Cardiology at 239-261-2000.

Where can I learn more?

American College of Cardiology: Current approaches to AFib treatment and stroke prevention

American Heart Association: Heart attack and stroke warning signs