What is atrial fibrillation and how is it treated in Pune?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular, often rapid heart rhythm caused by disorganised electrical signals in the heart's upper chambers. It raises the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiac complications. Deccan Hardikar Hospital in Pune provides specialist cardiology evaluation and evidence-based treatment for AFib and related heart rhythm disorders.
AFib is one of the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmias. It may be intermittent (paroxysmal), persistent, or long-standing. Early diagnosis and structured management are essential to reduce the risk of serious complications.
Note: AFib does not always cause obvious symptoms. Some patients are diagnosed incidentally during a routine check-up or ECG.
What does atrial fibrillation feel like?
AFib symptoms vary widely. Some individuals experience pronounced discomfort; others have no symptoms at all. The following are the most commonly reported signs:
- Palpitations — a fluttering, racing, or irregular heartbeat sensation in the chest
- Shortness of breath — especially during mild exertion or at rest
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness that limits daily activity
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Chest discomfort, pressure, or tightness
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Fainting or near-fainting episodes (less common)
Symptoms may come and go (paroxysmal AFib) or be present continuously. If you notice a persistently irregular pulse or any combination of the above, a cardiology assessment is warranted.
Is atrial fibrillation life-threatening and who is at risk?
AFib itself is rarely immediately life-threatening, but it significantly increases the risk of serious complications if left unmanaged. The most critical risk is ischaemic stroke — blood clots can form in the heart and travel to the brain. Other risks include heart failure and worsening of existing cardiac conditions.
Common risk factors for developing AFib include:
- Age (risk increases progressively after 60 years)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Coronary artery disease or prior heart attack
- Heart valve disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Obesity
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Family history of arrhythmia
Warning: Patients with AFib have an approximately five-fold increased risk of stroke compared to those without the condition. Anticoagulation therapy, when appropriate, is a critical part of management — do not discontinue prescribed blood thinners without medical advice.
How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?
Diagnosis of AFib requires a clinical assessment combined with cardiac investigations. A cardiologist will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination before ordering tests.
| Investigation | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| 12-Lead ECG | Confirms irregular rhythm and absence of distinct P-waves characteristic of AFib |
| Holter Monitor (24–48 hr) | Captures intermittent or paroxysmal AFib episodes not seen on a resting ECG |
| Echocardiogram | Assesses heart structure, valve function, and clot risk in the left atrium |
| Blood Tests | Identifies thyroid dysfunction, electrolyte imbalances, and other contributing causes |
| Stress Test | Evaluates heart rate response and rhythm during physical exertion |
What medications and procedures are used to treat AFib?
AFib management follows three core goals: controlling heart rate, restoring and maintaining normal rhythm, and preventing stroke. The treatment plan is individualised based on the type of AFib, underlying conditions, and patient profile.
Medications commonly used:
- Rate control agents — beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin to slow the ventricular rate
- Rhythm control agents — antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., flecainide, amiodarone) to restore sinus rhythm
- Anticoagulants — direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) or warfarin to reduce stroke risk
Procedural and interventional options:
- Electrical cardioversion — a controlled electric shock to reset the heart's rhythm
- Catheter ablation — radiofrequency or cryoablation to isolate abnormal electrical pathways in the atrium
- Left atrial appendage closure — a device-based option for patients who cannot tolerate long-term anticoagulation
- Pacemaker implantation — in selected cases where rate control requires it
The choice between rate control and rhythm control strategies depends on symptom burden, age, heart function, and patient preference. A specialist cardiologist determines the most appropriate pathway. Learn more about our cardiology programme at Deccan Hardikar Hospital.
When should you see a cardiologist for an irregular heartbeat?
Seek a cardiology consultation promptly if you experience any of the following:
- Palpitations or an irregular pulse lasting more than a few minutes
- Shortness of breath at rest or with minimal activity
- Unexplained fatigue persisting for more than one week
- Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting without a clear cause
- Chest discomfort or pressure, even if mild
- A known diagnosis of AFib with new or worsening symptoms
Seek emergency care immediately if you experience sudden weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, slurred speech, or loss of vision — these may indicate a stroke, a serious complication of untreated AFib. Deccan Hardikar Hospital in Pune operates a 24-hour Emergency and ICU service for acute cardiac events. For urgent trauma or cardiac emergencies, our trauma care team is available around the clock.
How does Deccan Hardikar Hospital approach AFib care in Pune?
Deccan Hardikar Hospital in Pune is a NABH Pre-Accredited superspeciality hospital with five decades of surgical and clinical excellence serving Western Maharashtra. The Cardiac Sciences department provides structured evaluation and management of atrial fibrillation, from initial ECG and Holter monitoring through to interventional procedures where indicated.
Patients benefit from:
- Integrated cardiology and cardiac surgery under one roof
- Dedicated Emergency and ICU services for acute arrhythmia presentations
- Transparent cost structures with no hidden charges
- A patient-centric environment designed to support recovery and long-term follow-up
- Access to multiple specialities — including urology, neurology, and nephrology — for patients with complex comorbidities
For patients requiring surgical intervention beyond rhythm management, the hospital also offers advanced spine care and joint replacement surgery, reflecting the breadth of superspeciality services available at a single centre. To discuss your symptoms or arrange a cardiology consultation, use the booking form on this page.
Book a Cardiology Consultation at Deccan Hardikar Hospital
Use the booking form on this page to schedule your appointment. Our team at 1160/61, University Rd, Shivajinagar, Pune 411005 is available to assist you.