Published: January 30, 2017 | Updated: December 6, 2021
Atrial fibrillation, also known as A-fib, affects between nearly 3 million to 6 million peoplein the United States. The condition causes the upper chambers of the heart(atria) to beat quickly and in an uncontrolled manner (fibrillation), resultingin irregular and often rapid heart rate. This can impact blood flow throughoutthe body. The symptoms can include:
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Heart palpitations (irregular or rapid heartbeat)
Shortness of breath
Irregular pulse
Dizziness
Chest pain
Tiredness or weakness
“Many patients willdescribe a-Fib as a sensation of fluttering in the chest,” said Kent E. Morris, M.D., clinical cardiac electrophysiologist with Norton Heart Care. “Theepisodes can be occasional, meaning symptoms come and go over the course ofminutes or hours, or can be long-term.”
Although there are noobvious causes for developing A-fib, there are several risk factors:
Excessive alcohol use
Physical stress
Medications that stimulate the heart
Heart surgery
Heart disease, heart failure, heart valvedisease and a history of heart attacks
Pericarditis (inflammation of the sac around the heart)
Hyperthyroidism (overactivity of the thyroid gland)
Lung disease
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Join Dr. Morris for a Facebook Live chat on Friday, Feb. 10,at 11 a.m. He will explain A-fib and treatment options available, including thelatest FDA-approved implant known as the Watchman Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC).
Select an appointment date and time from available spots listed below.