Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): What You Need to Know (and What Google Won't Always Tell You)

Experiencing unusual heart symptoms or an AFib diagnosis can be unsettling. Get clear, reliable answers to your most pressing questions about atrial fibrillation, from recognizing subtle signs to understanding treatment options.

Understanding the Early Warning Signs: Is it AFib or Just Palpitations?

Many people experience occasional heart flutters. It's a common sensation, and often harmless. But how do you tell if what you're feeling might be something more serious, like atrial fibrillation (AFib)? Knowing the difference is crucial for your health.

Key symptoms to look out for include:

• Irregular heartbeat: This is the hallmark of AFib. Your heart may feel like it's skipping beats, fluttering, or beating unevenly.
• Racing heart: Your heart rate may suddenly increase, even when you're at rest.
• Shortness of breath: You might feel like you can't catch your breath, even with minimal exertion.
• Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness or faintness.
• Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or weakness.

Recognizing the early warning signs of AFib is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. To learn more about the symptoms of AFib and how Dignity Health is helping patients in California recognize and manage this common heart condition, read this article from Dignity Health and KCRA 3, "Chest Pain or Trouble Breathing? It Could Be Atrial Fibrillation."

While occasional palpitations are usually benign, persistent or frequent occurrences of these symptoms warrant a medical evaluation. Dignity Health suggests that anyone experiencing these symptoms consult with a healthcare professional.

If you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness along with any of the above symptoms, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious heart condition.

The Hidden Dangers of Untreated AFib: It's More Than Just a Skipping Beat

AFib isn't just uncomfortable; it can lead to serious complications if left unmanaged. Ignoring AFib can have significant consequences for your long-term health:

• Stroke risk: This is a major concern. AFib significantly increases the risk of stroke. When the heart beats irregularly, blood can pool and form clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can block blood flow and cause a stroke. This is why blood thinners are often prescribed for AFib patients. Dignity Health emphasizes the importance of stroke prevention in AFib management.

• Heart failure: The irregular and rapid heartbeats associated with AFib can strain the heart muscle over time, leading to heart failure. This means the heart can't pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs.

• Other potential issues: Chronic fatigue, decreased quality of life, and an increased risk of other heart rhythm problems.

Untreated AFib can have serious consequences, but understanding the risks is the first step towards protecting your heart health. To learn more about the impacts of AFib and how Dignity Health is working to combat this common heart arrhythmia through innovative treatments, read this article from Dignity Health and KCRA 3, "Atrial Fibrillation, a Common Heart Arrhythmia, Can Be Serious. Here’s What You Need to Know”.

Decoding AFib Diagnosis: What to Expect at the Doctor's Office

Taking the first step to address your heart health can be daunting, but understanding the diagnostic process can ease your anxiety. Here's a breakdown of common tests you may expect at your health care provider's office when being evaluated for AFib:

• ECG (electrocardiogram): This is a quick and painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It can detect irregular heart rhythms like AFib.

• Holter monitor: This is a portable ECG device that you wear for 24-48 hours. It continuously records your heart's electrical activity, allowing your health care provider to detect AFib episodes that may not occur during a standard ECG.

• Event recorders: These are similar to Holter monitors but are worn for longer periods (weeks or even months). They're activated when you experience symptoms, allowing you to record your heart's activity during an episode.

These tests help your health care provider determine if you have AFib, how often it occurs, and how severe it is. An accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. Dignity Health utilizes a range of diagnostic technologies to ensure accurate and timely diagnoses for our patients.

Beyond Medications: Lifestyle Changes That Can Impact AFib Management

Medication is often crucial for managing AFib, but lifestyle choices can play a significant role in improving overall heart health and reducing the frequency and severity of AFib episodes.

• Diet: Emphasize a heart-healthy diet low in sodium and unhealthy fats. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limiting processed foods and sugary drinks is also important.

• Exercise: The right type and amount of physical activity can benefit AFib patients. Talk to your health care provider about a safe and effective exercise plan. Moderate-intensity activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are often recommended.

• Stress reduction: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can help reduce stress and lower your heart rate. Chronic stress can trigger AFib episodes.

• Avoiding triggers: Common culprits include excessive alcohol, caffeine, and smoking. Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers can help manage your AFib.

• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of AFib and improve its management.

Dignity Health offers resources and support to help patients adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Our team of healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance on diet, exercise, and stress management.

AFib Treatment Options

Once diagnosed with AFib, understanding your treatment options is essential. The goal of AFib treatment is to restore normal rhythm, control heart rate, and prevent complications like stroke. Dignity Health in California offers a wide range of AFib treatment options, from medications to advanced procedures. Our experienced cardiologists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs.

Here's a high-level overview of common AFib treatment approaches:

Medications:

• Blood thinners (anticoagulants): These medications help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke.

• Rate control drugs: These medications help slow down the heart rate during AFib episodes.

• Rhythm control drugs: These medications help restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm.

Cardioversion: This procedure involves delivering a controlled electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.

Catheter Ablation: This procedure involves using catheters to deliver energy to the heart tissue that is causing the irregular heartbeats.

Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA): This innovative, minimally invasive procedure uses pulsed electrical fields to selectively target and eliminate the heart cells causing AFib. PFA is available at Dignity Health's Mercy General Hospital (Sacramento, CA), Sequoia Hospital (Redwood City, CA), and St. Joseph's Medical Center (Stockton, CA).

The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Dignity Health does not endorse any specific treatments, procedures, or products mentioned in this article. The availability of specific services may vary by location. Contact your local Dignity Health facility for more information.