February 13, 2026
Have you ever felt your heart skip a beat, flutter wildly, or pound against your chest? These sensations can be startling, leaving you wondering if it was just too much caffeine or a sign of something more serious. While an occasional flutter is often harmless, persistent irregularities in your heartbeat could indicate a heart rhythm disorder. Understanding the symptoms of arrhythmia and AFib is the first step toward protecting your long-term heart health.
This guide will explain what happens during these episodes, how to spot the warning signs, and when it is time to seek professional care from our team at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS).
Many patients use the terms “AFib” and “arrhythmia” interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. An arrhythmia is a broad medical term that describes any problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat. This means your heart might beat too quickly, too slowly, or irregularly.
Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, is a specific type of arrhythmia. It is actually the most common treated heart arrhythmia, affecting an estimated 5 million Americans. In AFib, the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly, out of coordination with the lower chambers. This leads to poor blood flow and increases the risk of stroke and heart failure.
While all AFib cases are arrhythmias, not all arrhythmias are AFib. Knowing the difference between AFib and arrhythmia helps you better communicate with your doctor about what you are experiencing.
Heart rhythm disorders do not always present dramatic symptoms immediately. Some patients may not notice anything wrong until a doctor detects an issue during a routine exam. However, most people will experience some physical indicators.
Common signs of an irregular heartbeat include:
If you notice these signs frequently, you should not ignore them. Early detection is vital for managing conditions effectively.
When patients describe their symptoms, they often mention “palpitations.” These are feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart. While scary, the causes of heart palpitations vary widely and are not always life-threatening.
Everyday factors can trigger these sensations, including:
However, causes of heart palpitations can also stem from underlying heart conditions. If lifestyle changes do not resolve the issue, or if palpitations accompany dizziness or chest pain, it calls for a medical evaluation.
While some palpitations are benign, specific symptoms of arrhythmia and AFib require medical attention. AFib, in particular, carries significant risks if left untreated, including a five-fold increased risk of stroke.
You should monitor your body for:
Because symptoms of arrhythmia and AFib can come and go, keeping a journal of when they occur and what you were doing at the time can be very helpful for your doctor.
Deciding when to see a cardiologist for AFib or other heart rhythm issues can be difficult. As a general rule, if you experience sudden or unexplained changes in your heartbeat, you should seek professional advice.
See a doctor if:
Our cardiologists for AFib and arrhythmia at Cardiovascular Institute of the South use advanced diagnostic tools, such as Holter monitors and mobile cardiac telemetry (MCT), to catch these irregular rhythms as they happen. We listen to your concerns and provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine the root cause.
Fortunately, heart rhythm disorders are manageable. AFib treatment in Louisiana has advanced significantly, offering patients numerous paths to restore a normal heart rhythm and improve their quality of life.
Treatment plans may include:
We tailor every treatment plan to the individual patient, focusing on reducing stroke risk and managing symptoms of arrhythmia and AFib effectively.
Your heart health is too important to leave to chance. If you are searching for arrhythmia specialists near you or need guidance on your symptoms, our team is ready to help. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality cardiovascular care available.
Do not wait for symptoms to worsen. If you want to stay on top of your heart health, contact Cardiovascular Institute of the South today. We can help you understand your risk factors and provide the care you need. You can call your closest CIS location with any questions or schedule an appointment with us online.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.