Atrial fibrillation, sometimes referred to as AFib, is a condition that affects the rhythm of the heart. It can lead to irregular and fast heartbeats, potentially causing discomfort and challenges for many individuals. Although common, understanding atrial fibrillation can help individuals identify symptoms and explore available options for managing the condition.
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia, which means an irregular heart rhythm. When someone has AFib, the top chambers of the heart (the atria) beat out of sync with the bottom chambers (the ventricles). This irregularity prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood, leading to various symptoms or complications. Symptoms individuals may experience include a rapid or irregular heartbeat, fatigue or low energy levels, shortness of breath, lightheadedness or dizziness, and chest discomfort or palpitations. Although AFib is not immediately life-threatening for most individuals, it can increase the risk of strokes and other complications.
How is it Diagnosed?
Atrial fibrillation can be challenging to diagnose because it may not always produce symptoms. Some individuals may only discover their condition during a routine medical checkup or consultation for unrelated health concerns. Doctors utilize various methods to diagnose AFib, including:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): An ECG is a commonly used test to identify AFib. It records the electrical activity of the heart and can show irregularities in the heart’s rhythm. For many patients, this is the first diagnostic tool used.
- Holter Monitors: For episodes of AFib that do not occur consistently, doctors may recommend wearing a Holter monitor. These devices track heart activity over a longer period, increasing the likelihood of catching irregular heart rhythms.
- Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create an image of the heart. This test allows doctors to examine the heart’s structure and look for issues such as blood clots or valve problems.
How is It Treated?
Treatment for atrial fibrillation focuses on managing symptoms, restoring or maintaining normal heart rhythms, and reducing the risk of complications such as blood clots. Doctors recommend treatment plans based on the severity of an individual’s condition, underlying causes, and overall health. Some of the most common treatments for AFib include the following methods below.
Lifestyle Modifications
For many individuals, lifestyle adjustments play a role in managing the symptoms of AFib. Adopting habits such as increasing levels of physical activity, eating a balanced diet, moderating caffeine and alcohol intake, and managing stress can support heart health. Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes may benefit individuals with AFib.
Medications
Medications are frequently prescribed to help manage AFib. These may include rate control medications, which work to slow the heart rate and make the heart pump more efficiently. Rhythm control medications aim to restore the heart’s rhythm to a more regular pattern, and anticoagulants or blood thinners reduce the risk of blood clots, which may help prevent strokes. Doctors tailor medication regimens to the individual based on their symptoms, health history, and the presence of other conditions.
Surgical Interventions
In rare cases where other treatments are not effective, surgical procedures may be recommended. These surgeries typically focus on addressing specific areas of the heart that contribute to AFib. They may also implant devices like pacemakers to regulate heart rhythms.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms such as an irregular or rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, or dizziness, contacting a healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause. Prompt evaluation can provide clarity and guide appropriate steps toward managing potential conditions like atrial fibrillation. Regular checkups and discussions with a doctor can also benefit individuals who are managing risk factors for heart disease.
