As AFib Awareness Month comes to a close, it's an important reminder that atrial fibrillation (AFib) remains one of the most common heart rhythm disorders affecting millions of Americans. While AFib can increase the risk of serious complications such as stroke and heart failure, early detection and treatment can help patients manage the condition and improve their long-term heart health.
According to Helen Rominiecki, nurse practitioner with Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, understanding the symptoms and risk factors associated with AFib is key to recognizing the condition before complications develop.
What Is AFib?
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that causes the heart to beat irregularly and often rapidly. When the heart is not beating in a normal rhythm, it can become less efficient at pumping blood throughout the body.
"Early detection is absolutely key," Rominiecki said. "Untreated AFib can lead to long-term consequences, most importantly heart failure and an increased risk of stroke."
The irregular heartbeat associated with AFib can allow blood clots to form within the heart. If a clot travels to the brain, it can result in a stroke.
Recognizing the symptoms
While some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms, many people with AFib report feeling different when their heart is out of rhythm.
Common symptoms include:
- Heart palpitations
- Rapid heart rate
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Fatigue or decreased exercise tolerance
One symptom Rominiecki frequently hears from patients is a decline in their ability to perform everyday activities.
"Patients often tell me they used to walk up a hill or incline with ease and now become short of breath doing the same activity," she said.
Can AFib go undetected?
Yes. While many patients experience symptoms, some may not realize they have AFib until it is detected during a medical evaluation or through consumer health technology.
Devices such as smartwatches and mobile heart monitoring tools have helped increase awareness and detection of irregular heart rhythms. However, an electrocardiogram (EKG) remains the primary tool used by healthcare providers to officially diagnose AFib.
"We're seeing more patients identify possible AFib through wearable devices," Rominiecki said. "But confirmation is made through an EKG, which allows us to see the heart's rhythm and begin the appropriate treatment process."
Who is at risk?
AFib becomes more common as people age, but several factors can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include:
- Age 65 and older
- Family history of AFib
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sleep apnea
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart failure
- Smoking history
Rominiecki noted that family history can play a significant role, but many controllable lifestyle factors also contribute to the development of AFib.
Prevention starts with healthy habits
While AFib cannot always be prevented, healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of developing the condition or experiencing recurrent episodes.
Recommended preventive measures include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing blood pressure and diabetes
- Following a heart-healthy diet, such as a Mediterranean-style diet
- Treating sleep apnea
- Staying hydrated
- Limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption
- Avoiding tobacco products
"The number one thing we can do to help prevent AFib or keep it from returning is addressing lifestyle factors," Rominiecki said.
Treatment options continue to evolve
Treatment plans are individualized and often include a combination of lifestyle modifications and medical therapies.
Common treatments include:
- Medications to control heart rate
- Antiarrhythmic medications to help maintain a normal rhythm
- Blood thinners to reduce stroke risk
- Catheter ablation procedures
Catheter ablation is considered one of the most effective treatment options for many patients. The minimally invasive outpatient procedure targets the areas of the heart responsible for triggering abnormal electrical signals.
Although AFib does not have a definitive cure, modern treatments can significantly improve outcomes and reduce symptoms.
"Through early detection, lifestyle changes and advanced treatment options, we can help many patients successfully manage AFib and maintain a normal rhythm long term," Rominiecki said.
Don't ignore the signs
Healthcare providers emphasize that patients should not wait to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as palpitations, unexplained shortness of breath or dizziness.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications, improve quality of life and increase the likelihood of long-term success in managing the condition.
"Atrial fibrillation is highly treatable," Rominiecki said. "We have excellent tools for diagnosis and treatment. The most important message is to pay attention to your symptoms, seek care early and know that help is available."
For individuals experiencing symptoms or concerned about their risk factors, discussing heart health with a healthcare provider may be the first step toward prevention, diagnosis and effective management.
