
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat that occurs when the heartâs upper chambers (atria) beat out of coordination with the lower chambers (ventricles), which causes your heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
AFib is the most common arrhythmia, affecting nearly 5 million people in the US.1 People with AFib are five times more likely to have a stroke.1 Itâs clear this is a prevalent, important condition to understandâespecially if youâve already been diagnosed or suspect you may have AFib.
If you experience AFib, it may feel like your heart is fluttering, quivering, or skipping a beat. AFib can be detected on an electrocardiogram (EKG), which records the electrical activity of your heart.
Knowing what type of AFib you have can help you understand how your condition may progress, and what kind of care you may need. AFib is typically grouped into several stages based on how often episodes happen and how long they last.
Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation describes AFib episodes that start and stop on their own, usually within seven days.2 These episodes may feel unpredictable, but theyâre an important early sign to pay attention to. Paroxysmal AFib isnât permanent, though it can progress over time. Thatâs why consistent monitoring and early management matter.
Persistent AFib lasts longer than seven days and usually requires treatment to restore a normal rhythm.2 This stage often signals a more established rhythm problem, and your care plan may shift toward preventing progression and managing symptoms more proactively.
When AFib continues for more than 12 months, itâs considered long-standing persistent.2 At this point, returning to a normal rhythm becomes more challenging, and treatment often focuses on rate control, stroke prevention, and supporting overall heart health.
Permanent AFib means you and your care team have decided not to pursue rhythm-correcting treatments.2 The goal becomes long-term management, through medication, lifestyle changes, and consistent monitoring, to help reduce symptoms and maintain quality of life.
AFib can look and feel different for everyone, which is why recognizing the signs is so important. Some people experience noticeable symptoms, while others may not feel anything at all. Understanding both how AFib shows up and how itâs diagnosed can help you get the right care sooner.
Common symptoms of AFib3 may include:
Catching AFib early requires the right tools at the right time. That may mean an in-clinic 12-lead EKG, a longer-term wearable monitor like a Holter, or an at-home EKG device like Kardia that you can use every day. Understanding how AFib is detected, and monitoring proactively, can help you stay ahead of potential complications and take charge of your heart health.
Your risk of developing AFib can be affected by several different factors. Common AFib risk factors include:
Early detection and management of AFib is not only important for your heart health, but your overall health as well. Atrial fibrillation is commonly treated and managed in these ways:
Personal EKGs like Kardia can help with the early detection of AFib, which may prevent serious heart complications.
People with AFib may be prescribed medication to help control the heartâs rhythm and rate.11
In some cases, an interventional procedure called an ablation may be performed to prevent further atrial fibrillation.11
A heart-healthy diet, frequent exercise, and reduced stress play important roles in the management of AFib.11
AFib is a serious heart condition and a leading cause of stroke. But with early detection and proper management, it can be treated. When it comes to your heart health, your doctor is your best resource. Talk to them about any symptoms you may be experiencing and then learn more about how Kardia personal EKGs can help you stay on top of your heart health from home.
Kardia personal EKGs are not tested or recommended for use with pacemakers and ICDs. KardiaMobile personal EKGs do not check for heart attack and do not replace regular health checkups with your physician. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or if you are having an emergency.