Atrial fibrillation, often shortened to AF, is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm seen in adults. It affects how the heart beats and how efficiently blood is pumped around the body. Some people notice symptoms straight away, while others may have AF for years without realising it.

We regularly assess patients who have been diagnosed with AF or are experiencing symptoms such as palpitations or breathlessness. Understanding what atrial fibrillation is and why it matters is an important step in managing it safely and effectively.

How the Heart Normally Beats

In a healthy heart, electrical signals travel in a regular, organised pattern. These signals cause the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) and lower chambers (the ventricles) to contract in a coordinated way. This steady rhythm allows blood to move smoothly through the heart and out to the rest of the body.

In atrial fibrillation, this electrical system becomes disorganised. Instead of beating in a regular pattern, the atria quiver or fibrillate. As a result, the heartbeat becomes irregular and often faster than normal.

What Happens in Atrial Fibrillation

When the atria are fibrillating, they do not empty blood as efficiently as they should. This can lead to two main problems. First, the heart may not pump blood as effectively, which can cause symptoms such as tiredness or shortness of breath. Second, blood can pool in the atria, increasing the risk of clots forming.

If a clot travels from the heart to the brain, it can cause a stroke. This is why atrial fibrillation is taken seriously, even when symptoms are mild or absent.

What Does Atrial Fibrillation Feel Like?

AF can feel very different from person to person. Some people are very aware of their heartbeat, while others notice very little. Common symptoms include an irregular or racing heartbeat, palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue, dizziness, or reduced exercise tolerance.

Some people experience chest discomfort or feel light headed. Others only discover they have AF during a routine ECG or health check. The absence of symptoms does not mean the condition is harmless, which is why assessment and monitoring are important.

What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation can develop for several reasons. It is more common as people get older, but it can affect younger adults too. Common contributing factors include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, heart failure, diabetes, obesity, and excessive alcohol intake. Other triggers can include thyroid disorders, infection, stress, or previous heart surgery. In some cases, no clear cause is found. The British Heart Foundation provides helpful information about these causes and risk factors.

Types of Atrial Fibrillation

AF is often grouped into different types based on how long it lasts.

1. Paroxysmal AF comes and goes, with episodes stopping on their own within hours or days.
2. Persistent AF lasts longer and usually needs treatment to restore a normal rhythm.
3. Permanent AF is ongoing, and the focus is on controlling the heart rate and reducing stroke risk rather than restoring normal rhythm.

How Atrial Fibrillation Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis usually starts with an ECG, which records the heart’s electrical activity. Because AF can come and go, some people need longer heart rhythm monitoring using a portable device worn for 24 hours or longer.

Additional tests such as an echocardiogram are often used to assess heart structure and function. Blood tests may be carried out to check for contributing factors such as thyroid problems. These investigations help determine the cause of AF and the most appropriate management plan.

Why AF Increases Stroke Risk

One of the most important aspects of AF management is reducing the risk of stroke. Because blood does not flow smoothly through the atria during AF, clots are more likely to form. Many patients with AF are prescribed blood thinning medication to reduce this risk. The decision to start this treatment is based on individual risk factors such as age, blood pressure, diabetes, and previous stroke.

How Atrial Fibrillation Is Treated

Treatment for AF focuses on three main goals: controlling the heart rate, restoring or maintaining a normal rhythm where appropriate, and reducing stroke risk. Some people manage well with medication alone. Others may benefit from procedures such as cardioversion, which restores normal rhythm, or catheter ablation, which targets the abnormal electrical signals causing AF.

Lifestyle changes also play a key role. Reducing alcohol intake, managing weight, controlling blood pressure, and improving fitness can all help reduce AF episodes and improve overall heart health. If you are local to Kent and use our clinic we tailor treatment plans to each individual, taking symptoms, lifestyle, and long term risk into account.

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should seek medical advice if you experience ongoing palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness, or a noticeable change in your heartbeat. Anyone diagnosed with AF should have regular follow up to ensure treatment remains appropriate.

If you develop sudden weakness, speech difficulty, facial drooping, or severe breathlessness, seek emergency help immediately, as these may be signs of a stroke or other serious complication.

If you are concerned about symptoms or have recently been diagnosed, you can contact us here to arrange an assessment or review.

Living Well With Atrial Fibrillation

Many people live full, active lives with AF once it is properly managed. Understanding your condition, taking medication as prescribed, and attending follow up appointments all help reduce complications.

We often remind patients that AF is not just about the rhythm itself, but about protecting long term heart and brain health. With the right support, most people can manage AF confidently.

Conclusion

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm condition that causes an irregular and often fast heartbeat. While it can feel worrying, effective treatments are available, and careful management greatly reduces the risk of complications such as stroke.

At West Kent Cardiology Partnership, we provide clear diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and ongoing support for patients with atrial fibrillation across Kent and East Sussex. If you would like reassurance, monitoring, or advice about AF, you can call us on 01892 526726 to book a consultation.