Atrial Fibrillation

What Is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm disorder. It causes the heart to beat irregularly and often too fast, which can reduce the heart’s efficiency and increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications.

In AF, the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) quiver or fibrillate, rather than beating in a regular rhythm. This can result in symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath, or it may go unnoticed for years.

At London Heart Group, our experienced private cardiologists in London provide rapid diagnosis, personalised treatment, and long-term management for atrial fibrillation using the latest technology and evidence-based care.

Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation

Some people with atrial fibrillation experience clear symptoms, while others may feel nothing at all. Common symptoms include:

  • Irregular or racing heartbeat (palpitations)

  • Fatigue or tiredness

  • Shortness of breath, especially on exertion

  • Dizziness or light-headedness

  • Chest discomfort or anxiety

AF can occur intermittently (paroxysmal), persist over time, or become permanent. Even when symptom-free, untreated AF increases the risk of stroke due to blood clots forming in the heart.

What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation can be caused by a wide range of factors. These include:

Sometimes, no clear cause is found—this is called lone atrial fibrillation. Our team will perform a thorough evaluation to determine any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your AF.

How Is Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosed?

AF is typically diagnosed through a combination of your medical history, physical examination, and heart rhythm monitoring. At London Heart Group, we offer:

  • 12-lead ECG (electrocardiogram) – to capture heart rhythm

  • 24- to 72-hour Holter monitoring – for ongoing heart rhythm recording

  • Echocardiography – to assess heart structure and function

  • Blood tests – to check for contributing conditions (e.g. thyroid issues)

  • Wearable or implantable monitors – for intermittent or silent AF

Early and accurate diagnosis is key to reducing your stroke risk and managing your symptoms effectively.

How Is Atrial Fibrillation Treated?

Treatment for atrial fibrillation focuses on three main goals:

1. Reducing Stroke Risk

AF increases the risk of stroke, so blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) may be recommended. Options include:

  • Warfarin

  • Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), such as apixaban or rivaroxaban

2. Controlling Heart Rate or Rhythm

To manage symptoms and protect heart function, we may recommend:

  • Rate control medications – to slow the heart

  • Rhythm control treatments – including medications or procedures to restore normal rhythm

3. Restoring Normal Heart Rhythm

In selected patients, we may offer:

  • Electrical cardioversion – a controlled shock to reset heart rhythm

  • Catheter ablation – a minimally invasive procedure to target abnormal electrical signals

  • Pacemaker implantation – in certain cases of slow or irregular heart rhythms

At London Heart Group, our team offers individualised care based on your age, overall health, and type of AF. We work closely with you to decide the best approach.

Advanced AF Management at London Heart Group

We offer comprehensive care for atrial fibrillation from diagnosis to long-term management. Our private London cardiology clinic provides:

  • Same-day ECG and heart rhythm monitoring

  • Expert consultation and second opinions

  • Access to advanced procedures such as catheter ablation and left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) if needed

  • Long-term follow-up and medication management

We are proud to support patients across Central London, including Harley Street, Mayfair, London Bridge, and beyond.