What Is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat rapidly and irregularly instead of contracting in a coordinated rhythm. This can reduce the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently and increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other complications.
AFib may occur occasionally, come and go, or become a long-term condition that requires ongoing treatment.
Why Atrial Fibrillation Matters
Because blood can pool inside the atria during AFib, clots may form and travel to the brain, causing a stroke. Early diagnosis and proper treatment help reduce this risk and improve heart function.
Common Symptoms
- Heart palpitations
- Irregular heartbeat
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest discomfort
- Reduced ability to exercise
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart valve disease
- Heart failure
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Hyperthyroidism
- Older age
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
How Is AFib Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose AFib using an electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter monitor, event monitor, echocardiogram, blood tests, and other heart rhythm monitoring devices.
How Is AFib Treated?
Treatment may include medications to control heart rate or rhythm, blood thinners to reduce stroke risk, electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation, or treatment of underlying heart conditions.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals help individuals with AFib by encouraging medication adherence, monitoring pulse and symptoms, supporting heart-healthy lifestyle changes, assisting with daily activities, and recognizing warning signs that require immediate medical attention.
Home Care Tip
If you have atrial fibrillation, take blood-thinning medications exactly as prescribed to help reduce your risk of stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions About Atrial Fibrillation
Can atrial fibrillation go away?
Some people experience occasional episodes that stop on their own, while others require ongoing treatment to manage the condition.
Is AFib life-threatening?
AFib itself is not always life-threatening, but it significantly increases the risk of stroke and other heart complications if left untreated.
Can home care help someone with AFib?
Yes. Home care professionals assist with medication management, symptom monitoring, healthy lifestyle habits, and coordination of care to help individuals manage AFib safely.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Call emergency medical services immediately if you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or a rapid irregular heartbeat accompanied by severe dizziness or confusion.