Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is the most common heart rhythm problem. It makes the top chambers of the heart twitch very fast instead of beating in a steady rhythm. Many people live well with it, but it raises the risk of stroke and heart failure, so it needs a plan.
These five points come from FCCI's patient education on AFib.
1. What AFib is
The heart's two top chambers, called the atria, normally beat in a regular way. In AFib, they start twitching at a very fast rate. That causes an irregular heartbeat that can be too fast or sometimes too slow.
2. How you might notice it
You may feel your heart racing, fluttering or skipping. You might notice an irregular pulse when you check it, or your home blood pressure machine may flag an irregular heartbeat. Some people feel short of breath or tired. Some feel nothing at all.
3. Why it matters
Most people tolerate AFib well, but it can cause serious problems:
- A stroke from a blood clot
- A weaker heart muscle, leading to congestive heart failure
- Shortness of breath and an irregular heartbeat you can feel
AFib can sometimes come with emergencies. If a racing heart comes with chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or stroke signs like a drooping face, weak arm or slurred words, call 911 instead of driving yourself.
4. How it is treated
AFib treatment usually takes a team approach. It may include:
- Blood thinners to lower the chance of clots
- Medicines to control the rate and rhythm of the heart
- A check for sleep apnea
- Weight loss, if you are overweight, to help control it
FCCI's electrophysiology specialists focus on heart rhythm problems, and its sleep medicine team can evaluate sleep apnea.
5. It can sometimes be cured
In certain patients, a procedure called an ablation can potentially cure AFib. Catheters go from the groin into the heart, and the doctor treats the areas that may be causing the rhythm. It usually requires one night in the hospital. Your rhythm specialist will tell you if you are a candidate.
If you have been told you have AFib, or your watch or blood pressure cuff keeps flagging an irregular rhythm, start with a visit at the Palatka office. Your provider can confirm it, explain your stroke risk and connect you with a rhythm specialist if needed.
Questions to ask at your visit
Living with AFib? Bring these to your visit:
- Do I have AFib, and what type?
- Do I need a blood thinner?
- Should I be tested for sleep apnea?
- Is rate or rhythm control right for me?
- Am I a candidate for an ablation?
Care close to home in Palatka
AFib is a long-term condition, which means many check-ins. Seeing a cardiologist in Palatka makes it easier to keep those visits instead of skipping them over a long drive.
AFib visits and tests are accepted under plans like Medicare, Medicaid of Florida, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, United Healthcare and Tricare, plus self-pay. Some routine follow-ups can even be done as TeleVisits by text link.
Why patients choose FCCI
AFib follow-up for Putnam County patients happens at 205 Zeagler Drive, Suite 101 in Palatka. The office also has heart testing on site, so rhythm checks and related tests can often stay close to home.
FCCI has managed heart rhythm problems for Northeast Florida patients since 2002 with a team of more than 30 providers. If AFib ever lands you in HCA Florida Putnam Hospital, FCCI physicians cover there 24 hours a day.
Want to talk about your AFib plan? Call 386.325.2836, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or request an appointment online without listing health details.
