Overview
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly, out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This can lead to a fast, irregular heart rate and may cause blood to pool in the atria, increasing the risk of blood clots and stroke.
AFib affects millions of people worldwide and becomes more common with age. While it can be a serious condition, proper treatment and management can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Symptoms
Some people with AFib have no symptoms at all, while others may experience noticeable signs. Common symptoms include:
- Heart palpitations — a racing, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat
- Fatigue and weakness, especially during physical activity
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Fainting or near-fainting episodes
Symptoms may come and go, or they may be persistent. Some people only discover they have AFib during a routine medical examination.
Causes
AFib is caused by abnormal electrical signals in the heart. These signals may be triggered or worsened by various underlying conditions and lifestyle factors, including:
- Heart disease — coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, heart failure, or congenital heart defects
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Thyroid problems — an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Sleep apnea
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
- Age — risk increases significantly after age 60
- Family history of AFib
In some cases, AFib may occur without any identifiable underlying cause, which is known as lone AFib.
Treatment
Treatment for AFib aims to control heart rate and rhythm, prevent blood clots, and reduce the risk of stroke. Options include:
Medications
- Rate control drugs — beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin to slow the heart rate
- Rhythm control drugs — antiarrhythmic medications to restore normal heart rhythm
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants) — to prevent blood clots and reduce stroke risk
Procedures
- Cardioversion — electrical or pharmacological conversion to restore normal rhythm
- Catheter ablation — targeted destruction of abnormal heart tissue causing AFib
- Pacemaker implantation — to regulate heart rate when other treatments are ineffective
- Maze procedure — a surgical option for certain patients
Lifestyle Changes
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting alcohol and caffeine
- Managing stress
- Treating underlying conditions such as sleep apnea and high blood pressure