Atrial fibrillation — also called AFib — is on the rise, with an estimated three million diagnosed adults in the US, according to the New York Times. That number is expected to quadruple with rising rates of obesity, diabetes and hypertension among aging adults.
AFib is an irregular heartbeat that can sometimes contribute to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular issues, according to the American Heart Association. Americans face about a 20 percent lifetime risk of developing the condition, but many people go undiagnosed. Symptoms of AFib include a racing, pounding or fluttering heart, periodic shortness of breath and excessive fatigue or dizziness from normal exertion.
Diagnosed AFib can also be managed with medications, surgical procedures and other interventions, but early detection is key for successful treatment.