What is Atrial Fibrillation and How is it Treated?

Experts say treatments for the common heart condition are improving, even as diagnoses rise.

Published on Feb. 10, 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 the condition is becoming more common, especially in older adults, doctors say treatments are advancing. Symptoms can include shortness of breath and a racing heartbeat, and A-fib is often detected through smartwatches and other devices. Treatments range from cardioversion to implanted devices and ablation procedures, though medications can have side effects. Experts recommend living a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of developing A-fib.

Why it matters

A-fib is a growing public health concern, as it can significantly increase the risk of stroke and other serious heart problems. Understanding the condition and available treatments is important, especially as diagnoses rise due to increased use of monitoring devices. Effective management of A-fib is crucial for reducing the burden on the healthcare system and improving outcomes for patients.

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 the heart to beat erratically, sometimes exceeding 200 beats per minute. While not usually life-threatening on its own, A-fib can lead to blood clots that increase stroke risk. Experts attribute A-fib to damage in the heart's electrical signaling, which can be caused by factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, stress, and viral infections like COVID-19. Treatments include cardioversion, implanted devices, and ablation procedures that use heat, cold or electric pulses to block faulty electrical signals.

  • Daniel Moore first experienced A-fib symptoms around age 30.
  • A-fib diagnoses are 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 co-authored a book on A-fib.

Dr. Laurence Epstein

A cardiologist at Hofstra University and Northwell Health who says treatments for A-fib have significantly advanced.

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

“The technology has really evolved.”

— Dr. Laurence Epstein, Cardiologist

“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

The takeaway

While atrial fibrillation is becoming more common, especially among older adults, advances in treatment options provide reason for optimism. By living a healthy lifestyle and seeking medical attention for any concerning heart symptoms, individuals can take steps to manage their A-fib risk and improve their long-term heart health.