We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – Definition and Overview

Introduction

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a common type of cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that affects the upper chambers of the heart (atria). Instead of beating normally, the atria quiver (fibrillate) rapidly and chaotically, which can impair the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

How Does AFib Affect the Heart?

In a normal heart, electrical signals travel in an organized manner, causing the atria and ventricles to contract in a coordinated way. In AFib, these electrical signals become erratic, leading to disorganized atrial contractions. This can cause:

Fast and irregular heartbeat
Poor blood circulation
Increased risk of blood clot formation

Symptoms of AFib

AFib symptoms can vary and include:

Palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeat)
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Chest discomfort
Some people may have no symptoms and AFib is only detected during a medical examination

Complications of AFib

If untreated, AFib can lead to severe complications, including:

Stroke – Due to blood pooling in the atria and forming clots that may travel to the brain
Heart Failure – The heart may weaken over time due to inefficient pumping
Blood Clots – Can form inside the heart and cause life-threatening embolisms

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to AFib, such as:

High blood pressure (hypertension)
Coronary artery disease (blockage in heart arteries)
Heart valve problems
Thyroid disorders
Excessive alcohol or caffeine intake
Obesity and sleep apnea
Genetic predisposition (family history of AFib)

Diagnosis of AFib

Doctors diagnose AFib using:

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – Detects abnormal electrical activity
Holter Monitor – A portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours
Echocardiogram – Uses ultrasound to check heart structure and function
Blood Tests – To rule out potential triggers such as thyroid disease

Treatment Options for AFib

Treatment aims to control heart rhythm and prevent complications. Options include:

Medications:
- Blood thinners to prevent stroke (e.g., warfarin, NOACs)
- Rate control drugs (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers)
- Rhythm control drugs (antiarrhythmics)
Cardioversion: Electrical shock therapy to restore normal rhythm
Catheter Ablation: Procedure to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing AFib
Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and reducing alcohol/caffeine

Conclusion

AFib is a serious heart condition that requires medical attention. Proper management can reduce risks and improve quality of life. If you suspect AFib, consult a doctor for evaluation and monitoring.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation

If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.

The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!

Registration

Please register in order to receive information regarding possible complications and new approaches to treatment of cardiovascular diseases via email in our Newsletters.