Shelly Major PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE Chief Clinical Officer | University Of Illinois Hospital - Chicago
Shelly Major PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE Chief Clinical Officer | University Of Illinois Hospital - Chicago
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, affecting over 5 million adults in the United States. This condition causes the upper chambers of the heart to beat irregularly and quickly, increasing the risk of stroke by three to five times.
Specialized care for AFib is available through cardiac electrophysiologists who provide expertise in managing abnormal heart rhythms. Dr. Dana Johnson, a cardiologist at UI Health, explains: “The heart is a kind of electrical pump. Just like those machines need electricians to keep them running smoothly, so do we. Cardiac electrophysiologists are like the electricians of the heart, and we have a lot of tools to measure and treat any potential issues that pop up.”
Risk factors for AFib include high blood pressure, smoking, and excessive caffeine or alcohol use, though it can affect anyone. Symptoms may include a fluttering heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, weakness, and confusion. However, some individuals may not experience symptoms until detected during a physical exam.
Dr. Johnson notes that early detection is crucial: “Many patients actually first come to me after getting an alert from their smart watch,” she said. “Learning something is wrong with your heart can be scary — especially when it comes out of the blue. But the truth is, AFib is a common condition, and catching it early means we can reduce any potential dangers.” Tests for AFib include EKGs, genetic testing, and heart monitoring.
UI Health offers various treatment options for AFib once diagnosed. The Cardiac Electrophysiology team collaborates with patients to develop personalized treatments aimed at managing heart rhythm and improving overall heart health. Available treatments include medication management, catheter-based ablation, and new pacemaker technologies.
UI Health's program integrates cardiologists and researchers to understand AFib causes better and apply advanced therapies tailored through genetics for individuals with or at risk for AFib. A dedicated clinic also assists patients on blood thinners to reduce stroke risk associated with AFib.
For those concerned about their heart rhythm, consulting a primary care physician about seeing a cardiac electrophysiologist might be beneficial. More information about UI Health's program can be found at Heart.UIHealth.Care.
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