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Patient Guide: Understanding the Basics of AFib
What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?
Atrial Fibrillation, also known as AFib, is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. AFib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart, or atria, beat rapidly and in an uncontrolled manner.1 AFib can negatively affect quality of life and lead to other serious health conditions.
Symptoms of AFib include heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty exercising, anxiety, chest pain, and dizziness, preventing you from doing the things you love to do.
Understanding the Impact of AFib
Is AFib a serious diagnosis? Should I be worried about AFib?
Don't underestimate AFib as it can negatively affect your quality of life and lead to other serious health conditions. While everyone’s experience with AFib may vary, it is crucial to recognize the potential risks and talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Patients with AFib have an increased risk for life-threatening complications, including2,3:
Understanding AFib's Prevalence & Statistics
Is AFib a common heart condition?
If you suspect that you may have atrial fibrillation (AFib) or have been recently diagnosed, you're not alone. Over 33 million people worldwide suffer from AFib.
Countless others have faced the uncertainty, concerns, and challenges that come with an AFib diagnosis.
Community Starts Here
Don't face AFib alone.
If you or someone you love is affected by AFib, join our Facebook community to share your experiences, ask questions, and get support from others like you.
Understanding AFib's Causes, Risk Factors, and Triggers
What causes AFib? What are the risk factors that can lead to AFib?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) can stem from various causes, with several risk factors playing a role in its development. By familiarizing yourself with these factors, you can gain a better understanding of what contributes to atrial fibrillation.
Below are some widely recognized risk factors associated with AFib4,5:
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors that can lead to AFib include:
Obesity
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Caffeine consumption
Stress
Cardiovascular Conditions
Cardiovascular conditions that can lead to AFib include:
High blood pressure
Heart failure
History of heart attack
History of cardiac surgery
Coronary artery disease
Other heart disease
Untreated atrial flutter
Non-Modifiable Factors
Non-modifiable factors that can lead to AFib include:
Older age
Family history or other genetic factors
AFib is a Progressive Disease
What are the different types of AFib?
There are three types of atrial fibrillation1:
- Paroxysmal AFib or Occasional AFib
- Persistent AFib
- Long-Standing Persistent AFib
AFib is a progressive disease which means that it may get worse if left untreated.
AFib and the Heart’s Electrical System
What happens to the heart during AFib?
The heart has an electrical system that coordinates the work of the heart chambers (heart rhythm) and controls the frequency of beats (heart rate). AFib is a condition that interrupts the normal flow of the electrical system, which is typically reflected on an EKG.8, 9
AFib increases a patient’s risk of heart failure and stroke five-fold and becomes harder to treat as symptoms become more severe, so it’s important to diagnose and seek treatment early.
AFib Diagnosis and Treatment
When should I seek treatment for AFib?
If left untreated, AFib can lead to other conditions including heart failure, stroke and death. AFib becomes harder to treat as symptoms become more severe.
Many different doctors, including a primary care physician, cardiologist, and electrophysiologist may be involved in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of AFib. Electrophysiologists are doctors specializing in treating abnormal heart rhythms (arrythmias) such as AFib.
Don't wait to treat your AFib.
Unbreakable Hearts: Stories of AFib Resilience & Recovery
Meet Jacqueline
As an active 82-year-old, Jacqueline could not tolerate her AFib medications. After four emergency room visits, her doctor suggested cardiac catheter ablation as a treatment option. After catheter ablation, Jacqueline felt great and was back to herself again.
Every patient's symptoms and recovery are different. Talk with your doctor about your treatment plan and what kind of recovery you can expect.
Embrace Support, Embrace Hope.
Join our Facebook community to connect with individuals who understand your journey with AFib. Share triumphs and challenges, discover compassion, and find the support you need to navigate AFib with confidence.
Empower Yourself. Make Informed Decisions.
Stay ahead of the curve by staying updated on the latest in AFib and electrophysiology. Subscribe today to equip yourself with the knowledge and resources that will empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
Don't wait to get the support you deserve.
Find an AFib specialist in your area who understands your unique needs and can provide the specialized care you deserve.
References & Disclaimers
1. Hugh Calkins, Gerhard Hindricks, Ricardo Cappato, et al. 2017 HRS/EHRA/ECAS/APHRS/SOLAECE expert consensus statement on catheter ablation and surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation. 2017.
2. CDC Atrial Fibrillation Fact Sheet, 2017 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) webpage on Atrial Fibrillation. www.cdc.gov accessed 07.29.2020.
3. Odutayo A, Wong CX, Hsiao AJ, Hopewell S, Altman DG et al. (2016) Atrial fibrillation and risks of cardiovascular disease, renal disease, and death: systematic review and meta-analysis.
4. Jelena Kornej. Circulation Research. Epidemiology of Atrial Fibrillation in the 21st Century, Volume: 127, Issue: 1, Pages: 4-20, DOI: (10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.120.316340)
5. Cosío, Francisco G. Atrial flutter, typical and atypical: a review. Arrhythmia & electrophysiology review 6.2 (2017): 55
6. Hugh Calkins, Gerhard Hindricks, Ricardo Cappato, et al. 2017 HRS/EHRA/ECAS/APHRS/SOLAECE expert consensus statement on catheter ablation and surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation. 2017.
7. Schnabel R, Pecen L, Engler D, Lucerna M, Sellal JM et al. (2018) Atrial fibrillation patterns are associated with arrhythmia progression and clinical outcomes
8. Johan E.P. Waktare, MB, ChB, MRCP, Atrial Fibrillation, AHA Journals.org.
9. Pittman RN. Chapter 2 The Circulatory System and Oxygen Transport 2011. Accessed June 2023.
The THERMOCOOL SMARTTOUCH® SF Catheter is indicated for the treatment of drug refractory recurrent symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and for drug refractory recurrent symptomatic persistent AF (continuous AF > 7 days but < 1 year), refractory or intolerant to atleast 1 Class I or III AAD, when used with the CARTO® 3 System.
As with any medical treatment, individual results may vary. Only a cardiologist or electrophysiologist can determine whether ablation is an appropriate course of treatment. There are potential risks including bleeding, swelling or bruising at the catheter insertion site, and infection. More serious complications are rare, which can include damage to the heart or blood vessels; blood clots (which may lead to stroke); heart attack, or death. These risks need to be discussed with your doctor and recovery takes time. The success of this procedure depends on many factors, including your physical condition and your body’s ability to tolerate the procedure. Use care in the selection of your doctors and hospital, based on their skill and experience.
Important information: Prior to use, refer to the instructions for use supplied with this device for indications, contraindications, side effects, warnings and precautions.
Caution: US law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
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