September is AFib Awareness Month: Let’s Take Care of Our Hearts
By Dr. Nicolas Chronos
September marks Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month, and I want to use this time to highlight an issue that is both very common and very serious. As a cardiologist, I see the impact of AFib every day. My hope is that by talking about it openly, we can raise awareness in our community, encourage early detection, and help people live longer, healthier lives.
What Exactly is AFib?
AFib is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm. In a healthy heart, the upper chambers (the atria) contract in a steady, coordinated way to move blood into the lower chambers. In AFib, those upper chambers beat chaotically, often much faster than normal. This can cause the heart to pump less efficiently.
While some people feel their heart racing or notice palpitations, others may not experience any obvious symptoms. That is one of the most concerning parts about AFib because it can be silent, yet still dangerous.
Why It Matters
AFib is more than just an irregular heartbeat. It can increase the risk of stroke by up to five times because blood may pool in the atria and form clots, which can then travel to the brain. It also increases the likelihood of developing heart failure and other serious complications if left untreated.
This is why awareness is so important. Recognizing AFib early gives us the opportunity to step in with treatments that protect both your heart and your brain.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Some people describe AFib as a “fluttering” feeling in the chest, while others just feel tired or short of breath. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Heart palpitations (racing, irregular, or pounding heartbeat)
- Shortness of breath, especially with activity
- Fatigue or decreased stamina
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Chest discomfort
Even if these symptoms come and go, they are worth paying attention to.
Who’s at Risk?
AFib can affect anyone, but certain factors make it more likely:
- Age (risk increases as we get older)
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease or prior heart attack
- Sleep apnea
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Family history of AFib
How We Can Help
At Lake Country Medical Group, we take AFib seriously. Diagnosis often starts with a simple physical exam and an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records your heart’s electrical activity. Sometimes longer monitoring is needed if the irregular rhythm comes and goes.
Treatment is tailored to each individual, but options may include:
- Lifestyle changes: improving diet, managing stress, treating sleep apnea, and exercising safely
- Medications: to control heart rate, restore rhythm, or prevent blood clots
- Procedures: such as ablation or device therapies in certain cases
Our goal is always the same. We want to keep your heart healthy and your quality of life high.
A Personal Note
I know that heart health can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I want you to know you are not alone. If you have questions or concerns about AFib, my team and I are here to listen, to guide, and to walk with you through every step of diagnosis and treatment.
This month, I encourage you to check in with yourself and your loved ones. If you notice warning signs, do not brush them off. Awareness is the first step toward prevention and healing.
Your heart beats over 100,000 times every single day. It deserves your attention and care. Let’s honor AFib Awareness Month by taking those signs seriously, encouraging conversations, and supporting one another in our community.
With warm regards,
Dr. Nicolas Chronos
Lake Country Medical Group
706-485-4004
lakecountrymedicalgroup.com
For more information on Atrial Fibrillation you can visit this link for helpful content at the American Heart Association.