Atrial fibrillation, or afib, is a type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) caused by faulty electrical impulses in the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria. Symptoms include heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness. Afib can increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke, cardiac arrest, or heart failure. Although it can't be cured, your doctor can help you manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications with medications, surgery, and other procedures. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, and limiting alcohol are ways to lower your risk.
What Is Atrial Fibrillation (Afib)? Medically Reviewed by Cheng-Han Chen, MD, PhD, FACC, FSCAI | March 27, 2026
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FAQ
If I'm experiencing symptoms of afib, when should I contact my doctor?
Call your doctor right away if you think you're experiencing symptoms of afib. If you have recurring afib, wearable devices and apps can help you monitor your heartbeat at home, under the supervision of your doctor.
Does afib go away?
In some people, afib will go away on its own and not cause any complications. In others, it can get worse, last for years, or even become permanent.
If I have afib ablation surgery, will I no longer need medication?
It depends on your afib and health history. Some people may have to continue taking antiarrhythmic medications after ablation, but many will end up no longer needing them.
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Chung Yoon, MD, is a noninvasive cardiologist with a passion for diagnosis, prevention, intervention, and treatment of a wide range of heart and cardiovascular disorders. He enjoys...
Anurag Sahu, MD, is the director of the adult congenital heart program at Inova Health System in Fairfax, Virginia. Previously, he was an associate professor of medicine as well as...
Robert Jasmer, MD, is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary disease, and critical care medicine. He is in private practice in Burlingame, California, where he specializin...
Michael Cutler, DO, PhD, is a cardiac electrophysiologist at Intermountain Heart Rhythm Specialists in Salt Lake City, Utah. His research interests include understanding the cellul...
Cheng-Han Chen, MD, PhD, is the medical director of the structural heart program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California, and director of structural a...
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