Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular and often fast heart rhythm. The upper chambers of the heart (atria) quiver instead of beating in a steady pattern, so blood is pumped less efficiently. AF may come and go (paroxysmal) or be present all the time. Some people feel palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness or tiredness, while others have no symptoms and find out during a routine check. AF becomes more common with age and is linked to high blood pressure, heart valve disease, thyroid problems and heavy alcohol use. The main concern is stroke: blood can pool in the quivering atria and form clots that travel to the brain. Over time, a persistently fast rate can also weaken the heart. Treatment focuses on preventing stroke, often with blood-thinning medicine, and on controlling the heart rate or rhythm with medicines, cardioversion or catheter ablation.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Causes and risk factors of Atrial Fibrillation
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease, heart failure or heart valve disease, including rheumatic heart disease
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Heavy alcohol use
- Obesity, diabetes and obstructive sleep apnoea
- Older age and long-term lung disease
How Atrial Fibrillation is diagnosed
- ECG (electrocardiogram)
- Holter monitor or event recorder worn for one or more days
- Echocardiogram to check heart structure and valves
- Blood tests for thyroid function, kidney function and blood count
When to see a doctor for Atrial Fibrillation
For severe, sudden or rapidly worsening symptoms, do not wait for an appointment callback. Seek emergency care. For a routine concern, our care team can help you choose the appropriate specialist. This page cannot diagnose your symptoms.
Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation at Iswarya Hospital
Complete spectrum of cardiac services including non-invasive cardiology, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, cardiac surgery, and cardiac rehabilitation. Emergency angioplasty available 24×7.
- → Angioplasty
- → Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- → CT Calcium Score (Coronary Calcium Scoring)
- → Pacemaker Implantation
- → Stent Placement (Cardiac)
Cardiology specialists for Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Fibrillation FAQs
Is atrial fibrillation dangerous?
AF is not usually immediately life-threatening, but it raises the risk of stroke and can weaken the heart over time. That is why a doctor will assess your stroke risk and may advise blood-thinning medicine.
Why do people with AF need blood thinners?
In AF, blood can pool in the heart and form clots that may travel to the brain. Blood thinners lower this risk; your doctor decides whether you need them based on your age and other conditions, and you should not stop them without advice.
Can atrial fibrillation be cured?
Some people return to a normal rhythm after a trigger such as an overactive thyroid is treated, or after cardioversion or catheter ablation. For others AF is long-term but can be controlled with medicines and regular follow-up.
When is AF an emergency?
Go to an emergency department if palpitations come with chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness. Call for help immediately for stroke signs: face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech.
Related guides
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
- Bring previous prescriptions, relevant test reports or scan images, a medication list and photo ID.
- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
- Your first consultation determines which tests or treatments are needed; not everyone needs every test listed on this page.
Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.