Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

What Is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?

Atrial fibrillation, also known as Afib, is an electrical disorder that affects the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria. It affects five million people in the U.S. and at least 30 million people worldwide. Atrial fibrillation causes the heart to contract in a disorganized way and prevents the heart from pumping blood correctly.

• Low energy levels
• Pooling of blood in the atria (upper chambers of heart)
• Risk of stroke
• Risk of blood clots

Afib symptoms

There are a wide-range of symptoms in patients who have atrial fibrillation. Some patients are truly asymptomatic while others suffer telltale signs of atrial fibrillation. These symptoms may include:

• Irregular heart beat
• Increased heart rate
• Decreased energy/stamina
• Fatigue

Some patients feel the atrial fibrillation more when lying on their side, particularly on the left side. Some are more aware of atrial fibrillation at rest, and others are more aware with exertion.

Afib causes

Atrial fibrillation can be caused by a number of different factors.  One or more of these factors, also known as triggers, may be combined to cause atrial fibrillation:

• Emotional Triggers
• Physical Exhaustion/ Exercise
• Surgical and Medical Procedures
• Dehydration
• Sleep
• Hormonal Influences
• Caffeine and Alcohol

Afib treatments

Treatment strategies for atrial fibrillation are generally focused on improving the patient’s symptoms and overall quality of life. In general, controlling heart rate is the first objective. Treatment options for atrial fibrillation can be surgical and non-surgical and may include:

• Medication
• Catheter ablation
• AV node/ AV junction ablation

Learn more about atrial fibrillation treatments.