Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a complex heart condition affecting nearly 12 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Let’s understand Afib and its implications, diagnosis, and treatment options. We will also discuss where to find the best cardiology care in Sarasota and Bradenton, FL.
What Is Afib?
Afib–or atrial fibrillation–is a type of heart rhythm problem. When you have an episode of Afib, the upper chambers (atria) and the lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart are not properly synchronized. This lack of coordination can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue and heart palpitations.
However, some people may not experience any symptoms at all. Still, the dangers posed by atrial fibrillation exist.
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?
There are many potential causes of or contributors to atrial fibrillation, including:
- Advancing age
- High blood pressure which can weaken the heart over time
- Heart disease in the form of an acute event, such as a heart attack, or another problem, such as blocked coronary arteries
- Thyroid problems (both an overactive and underactive thyroid gland can contribute to Afib)
- Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
- Diabetes
- Lung diseases, such as COPD and asthma
- Obesity
- History of heart surgery
How Does Atrial Fibrillation Affect a Patient?
For the most part, atrial fibrillation affects the regular rhythm of the heart. This can lead to decreased heart efficiency and symptoms such as:
- Extreme fatigue
- Dizziness
- Angina, or chest pain
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Weakness
How Does a Primary Care Doctor Diagnose Atrial Fibrillation?
Diagnosing atrial fibrillation involves a multi-pronged approach, including:
- In-office physical examination and medical history
- Blood work and lab tests to rule out underlying health conditions which could account for symptoms
- Echocardiogram testing, a painless ultrasound of the heart that provides video and still images of cardiac structure and function.
- A chest X-ray to assess the heart and lungs
- Use of a Holter monitor, a device the patient wears for 24 to 48 hours to record heart activity
Your primary care doctor likely will refer you to a cardiologist or heart specialist for a complete medical evaluation and these particular assessments.
If I Have Atrial Fibrillation, What Are My Treatment Options?
Treatment options for atrial fibrillation may vary based on individual needs. However, they typically include:
- Prescription medications to thin the blood and correct heart rhythm
- Ablation, a specialized procedure which uses targeted heat to destroy overactive heart tissue, such as the AV node, ensuring proper synchronization of heartbeats
- Cardioversion, a medical procedure which restores the normal rhythm of the heart
- Implantable devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators
- Maze surgery which creates scar tissue within the heart to correctly reroute electrical signals
Regardless of which treatment options you need, you must follow all medical advice closely. Your provider will help you make necessary lifestyle changes for better management of atrial fibrillation.
These lifestyle changes may include:
- Eating a healthy diet low in saturated fat and high in lean proteins, potassium and fiber
- Quitting smoking (see your primary care physician for a monitored smoking cessation program)
- Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake
- Reducing stress with meditation, deep breathing, yoga and prayer
- Moderate aerobic exercise for 30 minutes a day, five times a week
Best Cardiology Care in Sarasota, FL
If you or a loved one are in need of cardiac care, we invite you to speak with one of our cardiologists at Intercoastal Medical Group. Our professional team includes eight board-certified heart doctors who are highly skilled, innovative, and best of all, patient-centered. We would be pleased to meet with you and answer all your questions about heart health and the services we offer.
To arrange your consultation, request a visit by filling in our easy-to-use and secure form here. We look forward to serving you!