What is Atrial Fibrillation and How is it Treated?

Experts say the condition is becoming more common, but there are ways to manage it.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is a quivering or irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. While it's expected to become more prevalent, doctors say there are various treatments available to help manage the condition, including medications, procedures like ablation, and lifestyle changes.

Why it matters

A-fib is a major risk factor for stroke, and studies have found it may be responsible for up to 15% of strokes. As the population ages, the condition is becoming more common, making it an important public health issue. However, experts say improved detection and treatment options provide reason for optimism.

The details

A-fib occurs when the heart's upper chambers, called the atria, beat out of sync with the lower chambers, the ventricles. This can cause symptoms like a pounding heartbeat and shortness of breath. The erratic beating can also lead to blood clots that can travel to the brain and cause strokes. Researchers attribute A-fib to damage in the heart's electrical signaling, which can be caused by factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, stress, sleep apnea, smoking, and alcohol. Viruses, including COVID-19, have also been linked to the condition.

  • Daniel Moore first experienced A-fib symptoms around age 30.
  • A-fib diagnoses have been increasing, in part due to the growing use of smartwatches and other devices that can detect irregular heartbeats.

The players

Daniel Moore

A 60-year-old radiologist who has experienced A-fib symptoms.

Dr. T. Jared Bunch

A heart researcher at the University of Utah who co-authored a book on A-fib.

Dr. Laurence Epstein

A cardiologist at Hofstra University and Northwell Health who says treatment options for A-fib have greatly improved.

Amy Stahley

A nurse and dean at Davenport University's College of Health Professions who was diagnosed with A-fib three years ago.

Dr. Jose Joglar

A Dallas-based expert who helped author American Heart Association guidelines on A-fib diagnosis and management.

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What they’re saying

“Even though we see more of the disease, we're better at treating it.”

— Dr. T. Jared Bunch, Heart researcher

“I definitely have no exercise tolerance when I'm in it. I can't run. Walking is tiring faster. I get a little light-headed standing up.”

— Daniel Moore, Radiologist

“If you're feeling a little off, get it checked out.”

— Amy Stahley, Nurse and dean

“The longer you stay in A-fib, the more likely you are to stay in it for life.”

— Daniel Moore, Radiologist

What’s next

Doctors say it's important for people to take A-fib symptoms seriously and get checked out, as early detection and treatment can help manage the condition.

The takeaway

While atrial fibrillation is becoming more common, especially as the population ages, medical experts say there are now more effective ways to diagnose and treat the condition, providing reason for optimism. Lifestyle changes and early intervention can help reduce the risks associated with A-fib.