Atrial Fibrillation

Understanding and Treating Irregular Heart Rhythms

Atrial Fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, is the most frequent type of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia). It occurs when the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) beat out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles), causing an irregular, rapid or slow heartbeat. Many people describe the feeling as a fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest.

AFib can come and go or be persistent. While it’s not always dangerous at first, untreated AFib increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, blood clots, and other heart complications. Early evaluation and treatment are key to living safely and comfortably with AFib.

At Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists (VCS), every new patient meets first with a board-certified cardiologist, ensuring you receive expert evaluation from the start. Our team includes experienced electrophysiologists (heart rhythm specialists) who use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options to help your heart beat regularly again.

What Are the Symptoms of AFib?

Some people with AFib feel symptoms immediately, while others may not notice them at all. Common symptoms include:

• Fluttering or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
• Shortness of breath, especially during activity
• Fatigue or feeling easily tired
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Weakness or confusion

If you have any of these symptoms — especially if they come on suddenly — call your doctor. Prompt care helps prevent serious complications such as stroke.

What Causes AFib and Who’s at Risk?

Atrial fibrillation happens when the heart’s electrical system doesn’t work properly, causing the upper chambers (atria) to beat irregularly. Sometimes the cause is clear, but in other cases, AFib develops gradually with age or as a result of another health condition.

Common risk factors for AFib include:

• High blood pressure (the most common cause)
• Heart disease, including heart valve problems, heart failure, or prior heart attack
• Thyroid disorders (especially an overactive thyroid)
• Sleep apnea
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Heavy alcohol use or stimulant use (such as caffeine or certain medications)
• Lung disease
• Family history of AFib
• Advancing age (AFib is more common after age 60)

Even though AFib becomes more common with age, it can occur at any age and often coexists with other heart or vascular conditions. The good news: with early diagnosis and specialized care, most people can manage AFib effectively and reduce their risk of stroke or heart failure.

How Is Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosed?

Your VCS physician will start with a thorough medical history and physical exam, and may order one or more of the following tests to understand what’s causing your symptoms:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records your heart’s electrical activity
• Holter monitor or event recorder: Tracks your heartbeat over several days
• Wearable watches or devices: Such as Apple Watch, Fitbit, Samsung, or Kardia
• Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to check how your heart chambers and valves are working
• Stress test or blood tests: Identify possible triggers or related conditions
• Cardiac imaging (heart CT): May be used to assess structure, function, or blood flow

Because VCS is Central Virginia’s largest independent cardiovascular practice, you’ll have access to comprehensive, in-house diagnostic imaging, including PET and CT when needed, making VCS a true “one-stop” destination for cardiovascular care.

Treatment Options for AFib

Your treatment plan is tailored to you based on the type, frequency, and severity of your AFib and your overall health. At VCS, our goal is to:

• Restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm
• Control your heart rate to reduce symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath
• Prevent blood clots that could cause a stroke
• Address underlying causes such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or thyroid issues

Treatment may involve medications, electrical cardioversion, or catheter ablation — all offered through VCS’s advanced electrophysiology (EP) program.

Advanced AFib Procedures at VCS

Patients at VCS receive care from board-certified electrophysiologists who are leaders in arrhythmia management throughout Virginia.

Backed by a proven history of innovation and “firsts” in heart rhythm treatment, our team offers advanced, safer, and more precise options, including:

• Catheter Ablation: Uses pulsed electrical energy, heat, and cold to destroy small areas of heart tissue that cause irregular rhythms.
• Electrical Cardioversion: A quick, controlled electrical pulse to restore your normal heartbeat.
• Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA): The latest generation of ablation therapy using systems such as Boston Scientific’s FARAPULSE™, Medtronic’s AFFERA™, and Biosense Webster’s VARIPULSE™, offering enhanced precision with less risk to surrounding tissue.
• Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAO): Watchman™ or Amulet™ procedures that reduce stroke risk for patients who can’t take long-term blood thinners.
• WATCHMAN™ Procedure: A minimally invasive implant that closes off the left atrial appendage to help prevent stroke in patients with non-valvular AFib, offering an alternative to lifelong anticoagulant use.
• Pacemaker Implantation: Including Abbott’s AVEIR™ leadless pacemaker, a minimally invasive option about the size of a AAA battery.

Many minimally invasive heart rhythm procedures are performed at the VCS Heart & Vascular Ambulatory Surgery Center, Virginia’s first dedicated Cardiovascular ASC.

This outpatient facility offers:

• A comfortable, patient-centered environment
• Lower costs compared to traditional hospital procedures
• Same-day recovery and faster return to normal activities
• The same high standards of safety and quality you expect from hospital care

Coordinated Hospital Care

When hospital care is needed, VCS physicians maintain privileges and coordinate seamlessly with leading hospitals across Central Virginia, including Bon Secours facilities such as St. Mary’s and Memorial Regional Medical Center, and HCA Virginia hospitals such as Henrico Doctors’ and CJW Chippenham. This collaboration ensures that your care remains connected, efficient, and consistent wherever you receive treatment.

Living with AFib: Ongoing Care and Support

After your heart rhythm is restored, your care team will continue to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed.

Ongoing care may include:

• Antiarrhythmic medications to maintain rhythm
• Anticoagulants (blood thinners) to prevent clots and stroke
• Lifestyle support for managing diet, exercise, and stress
• Regular follow-ups with your cardiologist or electrophysiologist

Our goal is to help you stay symptom-free and confident in your heart health — supported by a team known for compassion, innovation, and exceptional care.

Why Patients Choose Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists

VCS is Central Virginia’s largest independent cardiology practice, with more than 45 years of experience and a reputation as “The Name to Trust. The First to Lead.”

When you choose VCS, you benefit from:

• Direct access to board-certified cardiologists and electrophysiologists
• The region’s most comprehensive cardiovascular services, from diagnostic testing to advanced procedures
• Virginia’s first dedicated Cardiovascular Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC)
• Expertise in pioneering technologies, including leadless pacemakers, PFA, and minimally invasive heart procedures
• A patient-first approach that ensures compassionate, efficient, and personalized care

Whether you’re newly diagnosed with AFib or seeking specialized treatment for it, VCS provides the expert care you need right here in your community.