Understanding AFib: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

When your heart is healthy, it beats in a steady, coordinated rhythm. If that rhythm becomes irregular, it may be a sign of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder. Recent studies find that AFib affects an estimated 10.55 million, or 1 in 22 Americans, today.

AFib affects the electrical system of your heart and can increase your risk of stroke and other serious complications if left untreated.

At North Oaks Health, our cardiac electrophysiology team specializes in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders, including AFib. Understanding the warning signs of AFib, what causes it, and available treatment options helps you protect both your heart and overall health.

What Is AFib?

AFib is a type of arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm.

“When you have AFib, the upper chambers of your heart, called the atria, beat irregularly and often too quickly, explains cardiac electrophysiologist Robert Derenbecker. “This can cause the upper and lower chambers of your heart to fall out of sync, making it harder for your heart to pump blood efficiently throughout your body.”

AFib may occur in brief episodes that come and go, or it may develop into a long-term condition that requires ongoing management. Some people experience noticeable symptoms, while others may not know they have AFib until it is discovered during a routine exam.

What Symptoms Should You Watch For?

AFib can feel different from one person to another. You may notice symptoms occasionally, or they may happen more often as the condition progresses. Common symptoms include:

• A rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat
• Heart palpitations or the feeling that your heart is skipping
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or low energy
• Weakness or reduced ability to exercise
• Chest discomfort or pain

If you experience chest pain, sudden weakness, trouble speaking, or severe shortness of breath, don’t hesitate. Seek emergency medical care right away. These symptoms could signal a heart attack or stroke.

What Causes AFib?

Your heart depends on a steady flow of electrical signals to maintain a normal rhythm. AFib develops when those signals become disorganized, causing the atria to beat irregularly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many health conditions and behaviors can increase your risk, including:

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease and other heart conditions
• Heart failure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Thyroid disorders
• Chronic kidney disease
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol use
• Aging

Why Is AFib Serious?

AFib is more than an irregular heartbeat. Because blood may pool in the heart during AFib, clots can form and travel to the brain, causing a stroke. In fact, AFib significantly increases your risk of stroke and can also contribute to heart failure over time.

The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce these risks and improve your quality of life.

How Is AFib Diagnosed and Treated?

If your healthcare provider suspects AFib, you may be referred to a cardiac electrophysiologist, a cardiologist with specialized training in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders.

At North Oaks Health, Derenbecker uses advanced testing, including electrophysiology (EP) studies, to identify the source of abnormal electrical signals in the heart. This minimally invasive procedure uses specialized catheters to map the heart's electrical activity and guide treatment decisions.

AFib treatment may include:

• Medications to control your heart rate or rhythm
• Blood-thinners or other medications to reduce stroke risk
• Cardiac ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat or cold energy to block faulty electrical signals and restore a more regular heartbeat
• Lifestyle changes such as controlling blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol use

Take Charge of Your Heart Health

If you're experiencing palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, or other signs of an irregular heartbeat, don't ignore them. Early evaluation can help you get answers and treatment before complications develop.

Make an appointment at the North Oaks Cardiology Clinic in Hammond by calling (985) 230-2778 (APPT).

Learn more about cardiac electrophysiology or general heart health services at North Oaks Health.