Atrial Fibrillation Specialists in Maharashtra
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, in which the heart's upper chambers beat chaotically and out of coordinati…
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What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, in which the heart's upper chambers beat chaotically and out of coordination with the lower chambers. This irregular electrical activity prevents the atria from contracting effectively, which can allow blood to pool and form clots that increase the risk of stroke. The condition may occur in brief episodes that come and go, known as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, or become persistent or permanent over time. Many people with atrial fibrillation notice palpitations or an irregular pulse, though some cases are entirely asymptomatic and discovered only during a routine examination or ECG. Management focuses both on controlling the heart rhythm or rate and on reducing stroke risk through blood-thinning medication.
Moderate
Common — increasingly diagnosed with age, affecting a growing number of older adults in India
No
Causes of Atrial Fibrillation
Caused by abnormal electrical signalling in the heart's upper chambers, often triggered by underlying conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, or hyperthyroidism. Risk increases significantly with age, and other contributing factors include obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, sleep apnoea, and chronic lung disease. Structural changes to the heart from prior heart surgery or long-standing heart disease can also predispose individuals to the condition.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
Palpitations or a fluttering sensation in the chest, irregular or rapid pulse, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, chest discomfort, reduced exercise capacity, occasionally no symptoms at all
Treatment & Types of Atrial Fibrillation in Maharashtra
Treatment includes medications to control heart rate such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, and in some cases antiarrhythmic drugs or a procedure called cardioversion to restore normal rhythm. Blood-thinning medication is typically prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke based on individual risk factors. Catheter ablation, a procedure that targets the abnormal electrical pathways, may be considered for patients with persistent symptoms despite medication.
Atrial fibrillation is classified by pattern and duration: paroxysmal (episodes that start and stop on their own, usually within a week), persistent (lasting longer than a week or requiring treatment to restore normal rhythm), long-standing persistent (continuous for more than a year), and permanent (a rhythm that is accepted rather than actively pursued to correct).
Cardiology Specialists in Maharashtra (1)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is atrial fibrillation life-threatening?
It's not immediately fatal for most people, but it significantly raises stroke risk because blood can pool and clot in the poorly contracting atria, which is why blood thinners are often prescribed.
Can it come and go, or is it always permanent?
Yes, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation comes and goes on its own, while other forms are more persistent or continuous — the pattern affects treatment choices.
Do I need blood thinners for the rest of my life?
Many people do need ongoing blood thinners based on their individual stroke risk score, even if the rhythm itself is well controlled.
What is catheter ablation and when is it used?
It's a procedure that targets the abnormal electrical pathways causing the irregular rhythm, typically considered when medications don't adequately control symptoms.
Can lifestyle changes reduce my episodes?
Yes, limiting alcohol and caffeine, treating sleep apnoea, managing weight, and controlling blood pressure can all reduce the frequency of episodes.