Atrial Fibrilation Specialist

What is atrial fibrillation?

Also called AFib, atrial fibrillation is a chronic medical issue that causes the heart to beat irregularly, substantially increasing the risks for heart attack and stroke. 

The heart contains four chambers – two upper chambers called atria and two larger lower chambers called ventricles. Normally, electrical signals in the atria occur in a normal rhythm, helping the ventricles to pump out blood to the lungs and the rest of the body. 

In atrial fibrillation, these electrical signals become irregular and erratic, and the upper and lower chambers call out of “sync,” resulting in irregular blood flow that can increase the risk of developing dangerous clots.

What causes atrial fibrillation?

AFib can be caused by structural defects in the heart or by damage in the heart muscle that interferes with normal electrical signaling and causes the heart to beat irregularly. Several factors can contribute to a higher risk of AFib, including:

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• Thyroid disease
• Valve problems or valve disease
• Prior heart attack
• Lung disease
• Viral infections
• Sleep apnea
• Long-term use of certain medicines
  
  

If you have any of these factors, see the team at South Palm Cardiovascular Associates.

What symptoms are associated with atrial fibrillation?

Very mild cases of atrial fibrillation may cause few or no symptoms and remain undiagnosed until a cardiac exam and evaluation reveal the condition. More pronounced cases cause symptoms like:

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid or “racing” heartbeat, palpitations or “flip-flopping” sensations in the chest
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Problems when exercising
  
  

If you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment at South Palm Cardiovascular Associates.

How is atrial fibrillation treated?

Atrial fibrillation treatment focuses on helping the heart resume a normal, healthy rhythm to prevent the formation of dangerous blood clots. 

Often, AFib can be successfully managed with medication, but sometimes, surgery may be needed to repair damage to a heart valve or to address the specific part of the heart where the irregular electrical signaling is occurring. 

Pacemaker implantation may be recommended in some patients who have a slow heartbeat due to AFib. Ongoing office visits will help ensure the condition remains under control so patients can avoid serious medical consequences like heart attack and stroke, and frequent blood testing will be needed to optimize medication dosing.

To schedule an appointment at South Palm Cardiovascular Associates, call the office or book a consultation online today.