What Is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder, affecting millions of adults. In AFib, the upper chambers of the heart (atria) fire irregular, chaotic electrical signals, causing the heart to beat irregularly and often rapidly. AFib may be paroxysmal (comes and goes), persistent, or permanent.
This condition increases stroke risk up to fivefold if untreated, making early diagnosis and management critical.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
AFib can produce a variety of symptoms, though up to 30% of episodes may be silent:
Irregular heartbeat (fluttering or quivering)
Palpitations or rapid heart rate
Shortness of breath, fatigue, or lightheadedness
Red-Flag Symptoms
Sudden chest pain, one-sided weakness, or speech difficulty (possible stroke)
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation? Risk Factors
AFib is often associated with a combination of heart and lifestyle factors:
- Cardiac causes: High blood pressure, heart failure, coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Other medical conditions: Sleep apnea, hyperthyroidism, obesity
- Lifestyle & age: Alcohol use, age over 60, family history of AFib
Understanding these factors helps guide individualized treatment and risk reduction.
Atrial Fibrillation Treatment at SD Premier Clinics
Our AFib management focuses on three pillars:
Rate Control
Medications to keep heart rate within a safe range
Rhythm Control
Strategies to restore normal heart rhythm if needed
Stroke Prevention
Anticoagulation therapy guided by CHA₂DS₂-VASc score
We use advanced diagnostics to personalize care:
- EKG: For diagnosis and monitoring
- Holter Monitor: Captures intermittent/paroxysmal AFib
- Event Monitor/MCOT: Mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry
- Echocardiogram
- Labs including electrolytes and thyroid function
- If needed, pulmonary referral for sleep apnea evaluation
Why Choose SD Premier Clinics for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Treatment?
Expert AFib care to control rhythm, reduce stroke risk, and improve heart health:
Timely Evaluation
Quick in-office assessment for fast diagnosis and treatment planning
Comprehensive Care
From rate/rhythm management to anticoagulation monitoring, all in one clinic
Evidence-Based Treatment
Proven strategies to safely control AFib and prevent complications
Personalized Approach
Care tailored to your heart rhythm, risk factors, and overall health
Supportive Team
Staff guides you at every step of evaluation, treatment, and follow-up
Convenient Location
Easy access with free parking in South San Diego
Take Control of Your Heart Rhythm
Find relief from AFib symptoms and protect your heart with personalized, comprehensive care.
FAQs
Sometimes paroxysmal AFib resolves spontaneously, but monitoring is essential.
A tool to assess stroke risk and guide anticoagulation therapy.
AFib itself may not be immediately dangerous, but it significantly increases stroke and heart failure risk if untreated.
Fluttering, racing, or skipped beats. Some episodes may be asymptomatic.
Yes, exercise, weight management, and controlling risk factors can reduce symptoms and complications.