Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common heart rhythm disorder globally. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly and rapidly, disrupting blood flow and dramatically increasing the risk of stroke. Early recognition and proper treatment can prevent life-threatening complications.

What Is Atrial Fibrillation?

In a healthy heart, electrical signals trigger a steady heartbeat. With AFib, these signals become chaotic, causing the atria to quiver instead of pumping properly. As a result:

• Blood may pool inside the heart.

• Clots may form.

• The risk of stroke increases up to 5 times.

Types of Atrial Fibrillation

• Paroxysmal AFib – Comes and goes, lasting minutes to hours.

• Persistent AFib – Lasts more than 7 days and needs treatment to stop.

• Long-standing persistent AFib – Lasts over 12 months.

• Permanent AFib – Continuous, and rhythm can’t be restored.

Common Symptoms

Some people feel nothing, while others experience:

• Heart palpitations

• Irregular or racing heartbeat

• Chest discomfort

• Shortness of breath

• Lightheadedness

• Weakness or fatigue

• Anxiety

• Trouble exercising

Major Causes and Risk Factors

AFib becomes more common with age, but other triggers include:

• High blood pressure

• Heart disease or valve problems

• Thyroid disorders

• Sleep apnea

• Diabetes

• Obesity

• Alcohol intake (especially binge drinking)

• Viral infections

• Smoking

• Chronic stress

Why AFib Is Dangerous

The biggest danger is stroke. Blood that pools in the atria can form clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it may block blood flow and trigger a stroke.

Other complications include:

• Heart failure

• Chronic fatigue

• Reduced quality of life

Diagnosis

Doctors may perform:

• EKG

• Holter monitor

• Echocardiogram

• Blood tests

• Stress tests

Treatment Options

1. Medications

• Rate-control drugs (beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers)

• Rhythm-control drugs (antiarrhythmics)

• Blood thinners to prevent stroke

• Medication to reduce clot formation

2. Cardioversion

An electrical shock or medication resets the heart rhythm.

3. Catheter Ablation

A minimally invasive procedure that destroys abnormal electrical pathways.

4. Surgical Treatments

Maze procedures or pacemakers for severe cases.

Lifestyle Changes

• Exercise regularly

• Maintain healthy weight

• Limit caffeine and alcohol

• Quit smoking

• Improve sleep hygiene

• Manage stress

Conclusion

Atrial fibrillation may be silent, but its complications are not. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent stroke and protect long-term heart health.