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Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an arrhythmia or abnormal heartbeat that can lead to serious complications like a stroke when left untreated. At Home Cardiology in Gilbert, Arizona, is a telehealth cardiology practice that provides convenient and comprehensive care for people with AFib. Zaki Lababidi, MD, FACC, FSCAI, Sharolyn McClurg, NP, and the team diagnose, treat, and monitor the arrhythmia, making quick adjustments to treatment plans to improve heart health. For expert atrial fibrillation care, call the cardiology practice today or schedule a consultation online. Home visits are available.
What does atrial fibrillation feel like?
You may not feel anything with atrial fibrillation (AFib), especially during the early stages. However, some people have heart palpitations that make it feel like their heart beats too fast or irregularly.
Fatigue and shortness of breath are more common early symptoms of AFib. If you have these symptoms and don’t know why, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
Why should I worry about atrial fibrillation?
You should worry about AFib because it increases your risk of having a stroke, heart attack, or cardiac arrest. AFib is an irregular heartbeat that starts in the atria (upper chamber of the heart).
Your heart pumps blood throughout the body. The rhythm of your heartbeat moves the blood through the heart to the lungs and then the rest of the body.
With AFib, the heart beats quickly or chaotically, making the flow of blood through the heart and body less efficient. The irregular heartbeat also allows blood to pool in the atria, increasing the risk of blood clots that may then cause a stroke or heart attack.
What tests do I need to diagnose and monitor atrial fibrillation?
You may need an electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram to diagnose AFib.
An EKG measures the heart’s electrical activity that sets the rhythm of the heartbeat. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that shows the movement of the heart and the flow of blood through the chambers.
You may also wear a portable EKG (Holter monitor or event monitor) that tracks the rhythm of your heartbeat over a period of time. The portable EKG can help diagnose AFib and monitor the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
What are the treatments for atrial fibrillation?
The goal of treatment for atrial fibrillation is to restore your heart’s normal rhythm and reduce the risk of complications. At Home Cardiology may prescribe medications that keep the heartbeat in rhythm and blood thinners to minimize the risk of blood clots.
If medications fail to improve your AFib, the At Home Cardiology team may recommend a procedure such as electrical cardioversion to reset the heartbeat, left atrial appendage closure to reduce the risk of blood clots, or placement of a pacemaker to keep the heartbeat in rhythm.
Atrial fibrillation is a common but serious arrhythmia. Call At Home Cardiology today or book a consultation online for convenient, comprehensive, and accessible care.