Atrial fibrillation : The most advanced treatments for heart rhythm disorders

Atrial fibrillation, frequently called AFib, is a common cause of sustained irregular heartbeats. Afib starts as a rapid and irregular heart rhythm from the top chambers of the heart, called the atria. The rapid rate in the atria may cause the bottom chambers of the heart, the ventricles, to also beat rapidly and/or irregularly.

Some associated consequences of AFib include an increased risk of stroke, memory problems or other heart problems.

Given that Afib symptoms may be mild, absent or occurring intermittently, many people may not know they have it. AFib can lead to more serious conditions, so it’s important to speak with a health care professional about any symptoms you have. Only they can determine whether symptoms indicate AFib or another condition.

Causes

There are many factors that can contribute to AFib, including:

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Being overweight

• Sedentary lifestyle (lack of exercise)

• Untreated sleep apnea

• Heart valve disease

• A weakened heart muscle (called cardiomyopathy)

• Lung disease

• Abnormalities of the thyroid gland

• Alcohol use

For some people, there’s no identifiable cause.

Symptoms

Symptoms of heart rhythm disorders and AFib can vary and include:

• Chest pain

• Dizziness

• Fatigue (tiredness)

• Fluttering sensation in your chest

• Heart palpitations (skipped beats)

• Lightheadedness or passing out

• Shortness of breath

• Or no symptoms at all

Seek emergency care if your symptoms are severe or combined with chest pain.

UW Health treats the most complex heart rhythm disorders. Working together, with your input, our team will design a treatment plan that’s best for you.

At UW Health, you have access to:

• Adult and pediatric cardiologists

• Cardiothoracic surgeons

• Electrophysiologists

• Genetic counselors

• Advanced practice providers