Understanding AFib Risks & Treatment Options
Thursday, February 27, 2025
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, affecting more than 5 million adults in the United States. Individuals with AFib, which causes the upper chambers of the heart to beat irregularly and extremely quickly, also are at a 3- to 5-times increased risk of stroke.
Specialized Care for AFib
For individuals with AFib or other abnormal heart rhythms, a specialized cardiac electrophysiologist can provide care and expertise to keep their heart safe.
“The heart is a kind of electrical pump. Just like those machines need electricians to keep them running smoothly, so do we,” says Dr. Dana Johnson, a UI Health cardiologist. “Cardiac electrophysiologists are like the electricians of the heart, and we have a lot of tools to measure and treat any potential issues that pop up.”
Who is at Risk for AFib?
While certain lifestyle factors like high blood pressure, smoking, and excessive caffeine or alcohol use can increase risk for heart rhythm disorders like AFib, it can affect anyone.
The most common symptom patients report is a fluttering heartbeat, but many experience spells of dizziness, shortness of breath, weakness, and confusion as well. Conversely, some patients may not experience any symptoms until their condition is detected by a physical exam. Despite this seemingly wide variety of symptoms, AFib is a manageable heart condition, and early detection can be the key to minimizing its impact and risk.
“Many patients actually first come to me after getting an alert from their smart watch,” Dr. Johnson said. “Learning something is wrong with your heart can be scary — especially when it comes out of the blue. But the truth is, AFib is a common condition, and catching it early means we can reduce any potential dangers.”
Tests for AFib can include EKG, genetic testing, and heart monitoring.
What AFib Treatment Options are Available at UI Health?
If an irregular heartbeat is diagnosed, the Cardiac Electrophysiology team will work with you to find a personalized treatment to manage your heart rhythm and improve your overall heart health.
At UI Health, AFib treatments include medication management, catheter-based ablation, and the use of new pacemaker technologies. Our program brings together cardiologists and cardiac researchers to better understand the causes of AFib, apply state-of-the-art therapies, and use genetics to identify and tailor therapies for individuals with or at risk for AFib. We also offer a dedicated clinic for patients on blood thinners to help reduce the risk of stroke in AFib patients.
If you have concerns about your heart rhythm, ask your primary care physician if seeing a cardiac electrophysiologist is right for you. To learn more about our program, visit Heart.UIHealth.Care.
