Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm. It affects how efficiently the heart pumps blood and can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications.

Symptoms

• Palpitations (fluttering or racing heartbeat)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or fainting in some cases

Risks

• Blood clots and stroke (due to irregular blood flow in the atria)
• Heart failure if the heart cannot pump effectively
• Increased risk of other heart rhythm problems

Treatment Options

• Medications
  • Rate control: beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, digoxin
  • Rhythm control: antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., flecainide, amiodarone)
• Anticoagulants (“blood thinners”)
  • Warfarin or newer oral anticoagulants (NOACs) to reduce stroke risk
• Procedures
  • Electrical cardioversion to restore normal rhythm
  • Catheter ablation to isolate abnormal signals in the atria
  • Surgical options in complex cases

Lifestyle and Monitoring

• Manage blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine.
• Regular follow-up with ECG or Holter monitoring.

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Related Guides

• Common Heart Medications and Their Side Effects
• Preventing Heart Disease: Lifestyle and Medical Screening

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Note: Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice.