Understanding Atrial Fibrillation
What Is AFib?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of heart rhythm disorder, and it affects millions of adults in the U.S. By age 45, one in three people will develop AFib during their lifetime, often without even realizing it.
Dr. Thomas Franzon
As an electrophysiologist, I treat AFib every day. I also see how easily it can be missed or misunderstood, especially early on. That’s why September’s AFib Awareness Month is such a vital opportunity to educate and empower people to listen to their bodies and get the care they need.
How AFib Affects the Heart
AFib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) begin to beat in a rapid and irregular way. This chaotic rhythm interferes with normal blood flow and increases the risk of blood clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can lead to a stroke — a potentially devastating first sign of AFib for many people.
Know the Symptoms
AFib doesn’t always feel dramatic. In fact, some people have no symptoms at all, while others experience vague signs that are easily mistaken for anxiety, stress or even aging.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations or fluttering
- Chest discomfort or pressure
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Feeling anxious or “off”
It’s important to note that women are more likely to experience delayed diagnoses. Their symptoms are often overlooked or misattributed to depression or lifestyle issues. In my own practice, I’ve seen women prescribed antidepressants for fatigue that turned out to be undiagnosed AFib.
Common Risk Factors for AFib
AFib is strongly linked to several common conditions and lifestyle factors:
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Sleep apnea
- Alcohol use
- Age (especially 65+)
- Family history
If any of these apply to you — and especially if you’ve noticed symptoms — it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce your risk of stroke and improve your quality of life.
You should talk to your provider or schedule an appointment with a cardiologist or electrophysiologist if:
- You have persistent fatigue or shortness of breath
- You feel heart flutters, skipped beats or a racing heart
- You’ve had a stroke or TIA with no clear cause
- You have a history of high blood pressure, sleep apnea or heart disease
How Is AFib Treated?
AFib can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications and procedures. Treatment may include:
A Journey to Recovery and Renewed Energy
What started as a vacation in Florida turned into a life-threatening emergency for Jan. Now at 73, after undergoing the Watchman procedure, Jan is thriving – active, energetic and living life on her own terms again.
Read Jan’s incredible story of resilience and recovery.
At Bronson Advanced Cardiac Healthcare, we offer comprehensive care for AFib, from diagnosis to long-term management, with the latest tools and personalized treatment plans.
Why Awareness Saves Lives
AFib is manageable, but only if it’s caught and treated. During AFib Awareness Month, take a moment to check in with your health, especially if something feels off. Whether you're a patient, a caregiver or simply someone who wants to stay informed, awareness is the first step to prevention. Learn more about AFib and Bronson’s heart and vascular services at bronsonhealth.com/heart.
