How your cardiologist in Olney and Rockville, MD, can help when you have Afib

Atrial fibrillation, also known as Afib, is an irregular heart rhythm which needs to be treated by a cardiologist. Afib can cause some uncomfortable and unpleasant symptoms which can affect your activity level and can result in serious conditions if left untreated.

Dr. Leith Abdulla is a cardiologist who provides a wide range of cardiology services, including diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation or Afib. He has two convenient office locations in Olney and Rockville, MD, to help you.

There are several potential causes of atrial fibrillation, including:

• Having a heart attack
• A congenital heart defect
• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Chronic high blood pressure
• Problems with heart valves
• Lung diseases
• Heart stress due to illness
• Sleep apnea
• Thyroid disease
• Stimulant use
• Viral infection

You may have atrial fibrillation if you are experiencing:

• Sensations of your heart quivering
• Your heart skipping beats
• A sensation of thumping in your chest
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Weakness and fatigue
• Shortness of breath

If you notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, you need to visit your cardiologist. Untreated afib can lead to serious complications including heart failure, blood clots, or a stroke.

Your cardiologist will perform a comprehensive physical examination and diagnostic testing including:

• An echocardiogram–to check for structural changes in your heart
• A Holter monitor–to check heart activity
• A cardiac stress test–to measure how your heart works when you are active

If you do have atrial fibrillation, your cardiologist is an expert at treatment and may recommend:

Medication therapy, to control heartbeat speed and reset your heartbeat to a normal rate. Common medications include blood thinners, anti-arrhythmic drugs, beta blockers, and others.

Cardioversion therapy, to reset your heart rate using electrical impulses.

Cardiac ablation, to cauterize tissue and block abnormal heartbeats.

Atrial fibrillation needs to be treated by a cardiologist, so you can enjoy an active life. To find out more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of atrial fibrillation, call Dr. Leith Abdulla. You can reach him in Olney, MD, by calling (301) 774-5260, or in Rockville, MD, by calling (301) 881-5858. Protect your heart by calling now.