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Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia, affecting over 2 million Americans. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat rapidly and irregularly, causing them to quiver instead of contracting effectively. This leads to poor blood flow and increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other complications.

Symptoms of AFib

AFib symptoms can vary in intensity and may include:

  • Irregular, rapid heartbeat
  • Heart palpitations (fluttering or pounding sensation)
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Chest discomfort
  • Some individuals may be asymptomatic

Risk Factors

AFib is often linked to structural or electrical changes in the heart due to:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease or prior heart attack
  • Abnormal heart valves
  • Sleep apnea
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Aging
  • Stimulant use (caffeine, alcohol, tobacco)
  • Previous heart or lung surgery

Diagnosis

To diagnose AFib, your provider may use:

  • Electrocardiogram (EKG): Measures electrical activity of the heart.
  • Holter Monitor: Portable device worn for 24–48 hours to track heart rhythms.
  • Echocardiogram: Ultrasound imaging to assess heart structure and function.
  • Blood Tests: To rule out thyroid or metabolic causes.

Treatment Options

  • Lifestyle and risk factor management
  • Medications: Antiarrhythmics, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, anticoagulants
  • Electrical cardioversion: Resets heart rhythm
  • Catheter ablation: Targets faulty electrical pathways
  • Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA): A newer, safer ablation technique using non-thermal energy
  • WATCHMAN™ Device: Minimally invasive implant to reduce stroke risk without long-term blood thinners
  • Surgical options: Hybrid ablation procedures
  • Device implantation: Pacemakers or defibrillators
  • Clinical trials: Access to emerging therapies

Treatment Goals

  • Restore normal heart rhythm or control heart rate
  • Prevent blood clots and reduce stroke risk
  • Address underlying causes and improve quality of life
  • Prevent heart from weakening and developing heart failure

Comprehensive AFib Care

MercyOne offers a multidisciplinary team including electrophysiologists, cardiac surgeons, imaging specialists, nurses and navigators to support patients through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.