What Is Atrial Fibrillation? Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment
What Is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (commonly called AF or AFib) is the most common heart rhythm disorder. In AF, the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat rapidly and irregularly instead of in a coordinated rhythm. This causes the heart to pump less efficiently and allows blood to pool in the atria, significantly increasing the risk of blood clots and stroke.
AF affects more than 450,000 Australians and becomes more common with age. It is estimated that one in four adults over 55 will develop AF at some point in their lifetime.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
Some people with AF experience noticeable symptoms including a rapid, irregular, or "fluttering" heartbeat, palpitations, fatigue or reduced energy, shortness of breath (especially during physical activity), dizziness or light-headedness, and chest discomfort.
However, a significant proportion of people with AF have no symptoms at all and are only diagnosed incidentally during a routine check-up or when they present with a stroke. This is why screening is so important, particularly for people over 65.
The Stroke Risk from Atrial Fibrillation
AF increases the risk of stroke by approximately five times. When the atria do not contract properly, blood can pool and form clots. If a clot travels from the heart to the brain, it causes a stroke. AF-related strokes tend to be more severe and more likely to be fatal than strokes from other causes.
The good news is that once AF is diagnosed, the stroke risk can be dramatically reduced with appropriate blood-thinning medication (anticoagulation). This is why early detection matters so much.
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All consultations and cardiac tests at Complete Heart Centre are 100% bulk billed through Medicare. All cardiology referrals accepted. No gap fees, no out-of-pocket costs.
How Atrial Fibrillation Is Diagnosed
AF is diagnosed by recording the heart rhythm on an ECG. However, because AF can be intermittent (coming and going), a standard 10-second ECG in a clinic may not capture it. This is where a 24 Hour Holter Monitor becomes invaluable -- it records every heartbeat over a full day and can detect even brief episodes of AF.
An echocardiogram is also typically performed to assess the structure and function of the heart, check for valve disease, and measure the size of the atria. These findings help guide treatment decisions.
At Complete Heart Centre, both Holter monitoring and echocardiograms are fully bulk billed through Medicare.
Treatment Options for Atrial Fibrillation
Treatment for AF focuses on three goals: reducing stroke risk (usually with anticoagulant medication), controlling the heart rate to reduce symptoms, and in some cases, restoring a normal heart rhythm.
Rate control uses medication to slow the heart rate during AF episodes, reducing symptoms. Rhythm control aims to restore and maintain normal heart rhythm using medication or a procedure called catheter ablation.
Your cardiologist will recommend a treatment approach based on your symptoms, the type of AF you have, your overall health, and your preferences. Regular follow-up is important to monitor your response to treatment and adjust as needed.
Related Services -- All Bulk Billed Through Medicare
Learn more about the diagnostic tests and consultations mentioned in this article. Every service is $0 out-of-pocket with a Medicare card and GP referral.
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With a Medicare card and GP referral, your specialist consultation and all cardiac tests at Complete Heart Centre are completely free. Three clinics -- Sydenham, Bundoora and Williams Landing.
