Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can cause uncomfortable symptoms and increase your risk of serious health problems. When your heart beats out of rhythm, blood may not flow properly, which can lead to fatigue, palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

AFib can come and go, or it can be persistent and long-lasting. Over time, untreated AFib may raise the risk of stroke, heart failure, or other heart-related complications—which makes accurate diagnosis and treatment especially important.

AFib doesn’t feel the same for everyone—some people notice clear warning signs, while others have no symptoms at all. Common symptoms may include:

• A racing, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
• Shortness of breath, especially with activity
• Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chest discomfort or pressure

Because AFib can come and go, symptoms may be intermittent. Even if you don’t feel symptoms, AFib can still increase your risk of stroke and other complications, making early detection and treatment important.

To confirm AFib and guide treatment, your care team may use a combination of tests and monitoring tools, such as:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): A quick test that records the heart’s electrical activity.
• Holter or event monitor: A portable device worn for days or weeks to track irregular rhythms over time.
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to check its size, structure, and function.
• Blood tests: To look for conditions that can contribute to AFib, such as thyroid or electrolyte problems.
• Advanced imaging or cardiac CT/MRI: In some cases, to evaluate heart anatomy and guide treatment planning.

These diagnostic tools help your care team understand how AFib is affecting your heart and determine which treatment option is right for you.

Every patient’s AFib journey is unique, and our specialists tailor Afib treatment plans to your needs. In many cases, treatments are used in combination or staged over time to provide the best long-term results. Options may include:

Medications

Medicines are often the first step in managing AFib. They can help control how fast your heart beats (rate control) or help your heart return to and stay in a normal rhythm (rhythm control). Blood thinners may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke, which is higher in patients with AFib.

Catheter Ablation

This minimally invasive procedure uses thin, flexible wires (catheters) guided through a vein—usually in the leg—to reach the heart. Heat or cold energy is then applied to carefully destroy the small areas of heart tissue causing abnormal electrical signals. Catheter ablation can be highly effective for many patients, especially those with paroxysmal (intermittent) AFib.

Surgical Procedures

For some patients, surgery may be recommended to create precise scar tissue that blocks abnormal signals, or to close off the left atrial appendage (LAA), a small pouch in the heart where blood clots can form. Surgical options are usually considered for patients who are already undergoing other heart surgery or for those whose AFib has not responded to less invasive treatments.

Hybrid AF Convergent Procedure

This innovative, two-step option combines the strengths of surgery and catheter ablation for patients with persistent or long-standing AFib. In the first stage, a cardiac surgeon uses a minimally invasive approach to target hard-to-reach areas on the outside of the heart. In the second stage, an electrophysiologist performs a catheter ablation inside the heart to complete the treatment. By addressing AFib from both the outside and inside, the Hybrid AF Convergent procedure offers a more comprehensive solution for patients whose AFib has been difficult to treat.

At UC Health, we’ve built one of the region’s most comprehensive AFib programs. Our multidisciplinary core team includes cardiac surgeons, electrophysiologists, and a Hybrid AF Therapy coordinator, supported by nurses, imaging specialists, and anesthesiology experts.

If you’re living with atrial fibrillation and want to explore treatment options, the UC Health Cardiovascular team is here to help. Our specialists will review your history, test results, and prior treatments to determine the best plan for your heart rhythm care. Call us today at 513-475-8521.