Medically reviewed by Dr Pinakin V Parekh, General & Interventional Cardiologist (MBBS (Singapore), MRCP (UK), GDFM (Singapore), FAMS (Singapore), FRCP (Glasgow)). Last Updated: 2026, 28 August
Founder & Medical Director of Trident Heart Centre
Dr Pinakin V Parekh is an interventional cardiologist in Singapore with over 20 years of experience in heart care. He specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of heaart diseases, including procedures such as angiogram and angioplasty.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm condition where the heart beats irregularly and often faster than normal.
Normally, the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat in a coordinated rhythm. In atrial fibrillation, these electrical signals become disorganised, causing the atria to beat chaotically.
This can lead to:
Because blood may not flow smoothly through the heart during AFib, there is also an increased risk of blood clot formation and stroke.
There are many possible causes and contributing factors for atrial fibrillation including:
Heart failure
Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
Age-related changes in the heart
Symptoms can vary from person to person. Some patients experience obvious symptoms, while others may not notice anything at all. Common symptoms include:
Some patients describe it as feeling like their heart is “racing,” “skipping beats,” or beating unevenly.
Atrial fibrillation is not always immediately dangerous, but it should not be ignored.
Because blood may pool in the atria during AFib, clots can form and potentially travel to the brain, causing a stroke. Untreated AFib may also:
Early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly reduce these risks.
Several tests may be used to confirm atrial fibrillation and assess your heart health.
An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and is one of the main tests used to diagnose AFib.
It helps identify:
Because AFib can come and go, a Holter monitor may be recommended.
This portable monitor records your heart rhythm continuously over 24 hours, several days, or longer to detect intermittent rhythm abnormalities.
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart.
It helps assess:
Blood tests may also be done to identify contributing conditions such as:
Treatment for atrial fibrillation depends on your symptoms, stroke risk, overall heart health, and whether the condition is occasional or persistent.
Lifestyle management plays an important role in reducing AFib episodes and improving long-term heart health.
This may include:
Medications may be prescribed to:
These medications help reduce complications and improve quality of life.
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that targets abnormal electrical signals causing atrial fibrillation.
This involves:
Catheter ablation may help reduce AFib episodes and improve rhythm control in suitable patients.
In selected patients, a pacemaker may be recommended as part of heart rhythm management.
This may be considered when:
A pacemaker helps maintain a stable and appropriate heart rhythm.
LAA closure is a minimally invasive procedure used in selected patients with atrial fibrillation to reduce stroke risk, especially when long-term blood thinners are not suitable. The Watchman device is commonly used for this procedure.
This involves:
LAA closure may help reduce stroke risk and provide an alternative to long-term blood thinners in suitable patients.
Many patients with AFib continue to live full and active lives.
Long-term management may involve:
Understanding your condition and staying engaged in your care can make a significant difference.
You should consider a heart rhythm evaluation if you experience:
Early evaluation can help identify the cause and reduce the risk of complications.
Patients often value Dr Pinakin’s approach because it focuses on:
Assessing symptoms, heart rhythm patterns, stroke risk, and underlying heart conditions.
Helping patients understand the benefits and considerations of medications, ablation, and other treatment options.
Focusing on stroke prevention, symptom control, and protecting long-term heart health.
It can increase the risk of stroke and other heart complications if left untreated, but many patients manage it well with proper care.
Atrial fibrillation is not always permanently curable, but it can often be very well controlled. Some patients may no longer experience AFib episodes after treatments such as catheter ablation, while others may require ongoing management with medication or procedures.
This depends on your stroke risk, symptoms, and treatment plan. Some patients require long-term medication, while others may undergo procedures.
Yes, many patients can continue exercising safely with guidance from their doctor.
Dr Pinakin uses current, evidence-based methods to carefully evaluate and treat heart conditions, helping you feel confident in your care.
Every patient is treated as an individual, with attention to your full health and lifestyle, not just the heart problem.
From assessment to treatment, screenings and procedures are conveniently coordinated in one place for a smoother, more reassuring experience.
