AFib Treatment in Phoenix, AZ

What is AFib?

AFib is a nickname for Atrial Fibrillation, or a type of irregular heartbeat. AFib is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. An arrhythmia is when the heart beats too slowly, too fast, or in an irregular way.

The board-certified cardiologists at Tri-City Cardiology are expertly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of AFib. Call (480) 835-6100  to request an appointment at one of our cardiology clinics throughout the Mesa, Gilbert, San Tan Valley, Chandler, Sun Lakes, and Casa Grande area.

Why Does AFib Occur?

A-Fib can happen in brief episodes, or it may be a permanent condition. Your heart normally contracts and relaxes to a regular beat. However if you have AFib, the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat irregularly. This leads to a lack of blood being pumped out and it can pool in the area. This pooled blood can clot, which can put you at severe risk.

AFib is typically seen in older adults as the risk increases with age. Other factors may include high blood pressure, obesity, lifestyle factors, disease, family history, or other causes.

What are the Symptoms of AFib?

If you have AFib, you may experience:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Heart palpitations (rapid, fluttering, or pounding)
• Chest pain
• Lightheadedness
• Gasping for air
• No symptoms

It is important to see a doctor regularly, as some cases of AFib show no symptoms. Your cardiologist can do routine scans and diagnose your heart condition to give you peace of mind moving forward.

How Can Treatment for AFib Help?

Treatment for AFib may include:

• Medicines to control the heart’s rhythm and rate
• Blood-thinning medicine to prevent blood clots from forming and reduce stroke risk
• Surgery or ablation to help with electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats
• Healthy lifestyle changes to manage AFib risk factors like diet and exercise

What Happens if Left Untreated?

AFib can lead to

• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Heart failure
• Other heart-related complications

It is a serious condition that can greatly increase your risk for stroke. The clot risk is high and people with AFib should be checked regularly to avoid complications. If a blood clot forms, it can leave the heart and block the blood supply to the brain and cause a stroke. According to the CDC, AFib causes about 1 in 7 strokes.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Our cardiologists are the Phoenix area’s leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of Afib. Call (480) 835-6100 to request an appointment today.