What is atrial fibrillation and how is it treated?

A-fib is a quivering or irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke and heart failure.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is a common heart condition where the heart's upper chambers beat out of sync with the lower chambers, causing a quivering or irregular heartbeat. This can lead to serious complications like blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. While there is no cure, there are various treatments available to help manage the condition, including medications, cardioversion, implanted devices, and ablation procedures.

Why it matters

A-fib is expected to become even more common in the coming years, affecting an estimated 10 million or more Americans, most of them older adults. It is a significant risk factor for stroke, contributing to 15% or more of all strokes, and has contributed to a rise in U.S. stroke deaths in the last decade. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for A-fib is crucial for reducing the burden of this growing health issue.

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 alarming symptoms like a pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath, and dizziness. The erratic beating can lead to blood pooling and clotting, which can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke. A-fib is linked to factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, stress, sleep apnea, smoking, and alcohol use, as well as viral infections like COVID-19.

  • Daniel Moore first experienced A-fib symptoms around age 30.
  • A-fib diagnoses have been increasing, in part due to the rise 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 since his 30s.

Dr. T. Jared Bunch

A heart researcher at the University of Utah who is optimistic about advancements in A-fib treatment.

Amy Stahley

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

Dr. Laurence Epstein

A cardiologist at Hofstra University and Northwell Health who says the technology for treating A-fib has greatly improved.

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

“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, radiology professor

What’s next

Doctors have a range of treatment options for A-fib, including cardioversion, implanted devices, and ablation procedures. Patients can also take steps to lower their risk by living a healthy lifestyle, managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, and seeking medical attention if they experience symptoms.

The takeaway

Atrial fibrillation is a growing health concern, but advancements in treatment have provided more options to help manage the condition and reduce the risk of serious complications like stroke. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches for A-fib, individuals can take proactive steps to improve their heart health.