Atrial Fibrillation Hub
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders, and also one of the most treatable. At CardioOne, our Atrial Fibrillation Hub brings together expertise, technology, and a patient-first approach to manage AFib from early detection to long-term care. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or are seeking advanced treatment, we provide personalised plans that restore rhythm, reduce stroke risk, and help you live confidently.
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) where the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat irregularly and often rapidly. Instead of contracting in a coordinated way, the atria “quiver,” which can lead to inefficient blood flow, an increased risk of stroke, and symptoms like palpitations or fatigue.
AFib may be occasional (paroxysmal), persistent, or permanent, and management strategies differ depending on the type and severity.
How the Heart Works
Your heart has four chambers—two atria (upper) and two ventricles (lower). Normally, electrical impulses begin in the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart’s natural pacemaker, prompting a steady, coordinated heartbeat.
In atrial fibrillation, this electrical system becomes disorganised, causing the atria to beat chaotically. This disrupts the normal flow of blood and can lead to blood pooling, increasing the risk of clot formation and stroke.
Causes and Risk Factors of Atrial Fibrillation
AFib can occur on its own, but it’s often linked to underlying heart conditions or other risk factors.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart failure or cardiomyopathy
- Valvular heart disease
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Excess alcohol intake
- Severe infections or inflammation
- Post-cardiac surgery
Risk factors include being over 65, family history of atrial fibrillation, diabetes, obesity, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and chronic stress. Early diagnosis and management can reduce complications such as stroke or heart failure.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation can be silent (asymptomatic) or cause a wide range of symptoms. Some people feel intense palpitations, while others notice fatigue or breathlessness.
Common AFib symptoms include:
- Irregular or racing heartbeat (palpitations)
- Fatigue or decreased exercise tolerance
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort or tightness
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Fainting (in rare cases)
If left untreated, AFib can lead to stroke, heart failure, and other serious complications.
Diagnosing Atrial Fibrillation
Accurate diagnosis is the first step in effectively managing AFib. At CardioOne, we use a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools to understand your heart rhythm and identify any underlying causes or contributing factors.
Treating Atrial Fibrillation
We offer a wide range of treatment options for atrial fibrillation, tailored to the type and severity of your condition. Our goal is to restore normal heart rhythm, reduce symptoms, and lower the risk of stroke and other complications.
Life After Atrial Fibrillation Treatment
Life after AFib treatment is about getting back to doing the things you love with more confidence and less worry. With the right care, most people can return to their usual routines, stay active, and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
At CardioOne, we guide you through treatment and long-term wellness by offering ongoing follow-ups and heart rhythm monitoring, and information on stroke prevention and heart health maintenance. We also offer guidance on safely returning to physical activity, dietary advice to support heart health, and cardiac rehabilitation programs tailored to your needs.
FAQs
Why CardioOne Specialises in Atrial Fibrillation
At CardioOne, we understand the significant impact AFib can have on a person’s health, confidence, and quality of life. Atrial fibrillation is more than just an irregular heartbeat—it increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other serious complications if not properly managed. That’s why we’ve designed our AFib Hub to deliver comprehensive, expert-led care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Led by Professor Darren Walters, one of Australia’s most experienced interventional and structural cardiologists, CardioOne brings together advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge treatments, and long-term rhythm monitoring to deliver the highest standard of care. We are committed to fast access, early diagnosis, and ongoing education, empowering patients to understand their condition, take control of their heart health, and return to living with confidence.