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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.
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.
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