Atrial Fibrillation Specialist

What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat. Sometimes called AFib, this condition disrupts your heart’s normal functioning and can increase your risk of serious complications like heart failure and stroke. 

When you have atrial fibrillation, the two upper chambers of your heart, called the atria, don’t work properly together. This interferes with the blood flow from the atria to your heart’s two lower chambers and ultimately to the rest of your body.

What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?

Some people have atrial fibrillation without even knowing it. When AFib does cause symptoms, they include:

• Dizziness 
• Weakness
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure
  
  

Atrial fibrillation can also cause heart palpitations, which may feel like your heart is racing, fluttering, or flip-flopping in your chest. 

Who is at risk of atrial fibrillation?

Many factors can increase your risk for atrial fibrillation, from your family history to lifestyle habits. Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include:

• Increasing age
• A family history of AFib
• A personal history of heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Drinking alcohol
• Being obese
  
  

Having other chronic conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and sleep apnea also increases your risk of atrial fibrillation.

How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?

First, your Premier Cardiovascular Consultants provider reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. They may perform several tests to help diagnose atrial fibrillation, including:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Echocardiogram
• Chest X-ray
• Blood tests
• Stress test
  
  

An EKG records the electrical activity of your heart through small sensors. Your provider may take an extended EKG test through a portable device like a Holter monitor or event recorder. 

How is atrial fibrillation treated?

Treatment for atrial fibrillation focuses on restoring your heart’s normal rhythm and preventing blood clots. Depending on your specific needs, Premier Cardiovascular Consultants may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Lifestyle changes like healthy eating and regular exercise
• Medications to make your heart’s rhythm more even
• Electrocardioversion, which uses low-energy shocks to reset your heart’s rhythm
  
  

For chronic or severe atrial fibrillation, they may perform a surgical procedure, such as pacemaker implantation.  

If you think you may have atrial fibrillation, call Premier Cardiovascular Consultants or request an appointment online today.