Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).
About one in every 100 people in the population have AF. This rises to about one in 10 for those over 65.
AF can either:
- be permanent
- happen intermittently for a few minutes or hours – called paroxysmal AF
What causes atrial fibrillation?
As well as increasing age, other factors that can increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation are:
- being overweight or obese
- smoking
- excess alcohol intake
- other heart conditions, including high blood pressure, ischaemic heart disease and heart valve problems
- lung conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
- other health conditions, for example overactive thyroid or type 2 diabetes
How do I know if I have atrial fibrillation?
Some people who have AF experience palpitations, which is an awareness of your heart beat. It may feel like your heart is pounding, fluttering or beating irregularly.
Other symptoms you may experience include:
- feeling faint or dizzy
- breathlessness
- chest pain
Many people who develop AF have no symptoms at all. This is more likely if you develop AF when you are older.
What risks are associated with atrial fibrillation?
For many people, AF causes no problems. However, in some people it causes blood clots to develop, which can increase the risk of stroke.
How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?
Sometimes, AF is detected by a pulse check. It can also be detected by a portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device, which shows the electrical activity in the heart.
If you are suspected to have AF, you will usually be referred for a 12-lead ECG.
You may also be given a portable monitor to wear for 72 hours, which can be helpful if you are experiencing paroxysmal AF.
How atrial fibrillation is treated
If you are diagnosed with AF, your doctor will perform a risk assessment to determine if you would benefit from treatment. This may include anticoagulant medication, which helps prevent clots from forming.
Other treatment can include:
- medication to control the rate and rhythm of the heart (for example beta blockers)
- being fitted with a pacemaker
- a cardioversion procedure to restore normal rhythm
How can I reduce my risk of stroke?
Other actions you can take to reduce your risk of stroke include:
- maintaining a healthy weight
- stopping smoking
- following recommended guidelines when drinking alcohol
See our information on cardiovascular disease and how to prevent it.
AF screening pilot
A local AF screening pilot is currently underway across Ayrshire & Arran, delivered in partnership with local community services.
The programme aims to identify people who may have undiagnosed AF – particularly those aged 65 and over, or individuals with known risk factors.
Screening is quick, simple and non-invasive. It uses a handheld device called Kardia, which records a single‑lead ECG in around 30 seconds. This painless test can detect irregular heart rhythms, even in people who are not experiencing any symptoms.
Early detection of AF is important. It allows for timely assessment and treatment, helping to significantly reduce the risk of stroke and other complications.
The check only takes a few minutes. If no irregular rhythm is found, you will be reassured. If AF is suspected, your results will be reviewed by the stroke service at University Hospital Crosshouse. You will then be contacted within a few days to arrange follow-up and discuss any further tests or treatment, if needed.
Insights from this pilot will help us shape and improve how AF screening and prevention services are delivered in the future. We will continue to share updates and key information as the pilot progresses.