❤️ Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) | Internist PCP Geriatrics Doctor Georgetown TX

Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
Nov 14, 2025
3 min read

Feeling your heart suddenly race, flutter, or skip beats? You might be experiencing Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) — a common but manageable heart rhythm condition.

At Wellness Bay Primary Care in Georgetown TX, our Internist PCP Geriatrics Doctor provides compassionate, thorough care to detect AFib early, reduce complications, and help you live confidently with a steady rhythm. 💓

🔎 What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?

AFib occurs when the heart’s electrical signals become irregular, causing the upper chambers (atria) to beat out of sync with the lower ones (ventricles).Common causes and triggers include:

High blood pressure
Heart disease or heart valve issues
Thyroid imbalance
Sleep apnea
Excess alcohol or caffeine
Stress, infection, or dehydration

🌡️ Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary, but many people notice:

Fluttering or pounding heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Fatigue or weakness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Chest discomfort
Sometimes — no symptoms at all

⚠️ Risks & Complications

Untreated AFib increases the risk of:

Stroke (due to blood clots forming in the heart)
Heart failure
Cognitive decline from poor blood flow
Fatigue and exercise intolerance

Early detection and management are key to preventing these complications.

🧠 Pathophysiology (What’s Happening) by Internist PCP Geriatrics Doctor Georgetown TX

In AFib, disorganized electrical signals cause rapid, irregular atrial contractions. This leads to pooling of blood in the heart and potential clot formation — especially in the left atrial appendage. Those clots can travel and block blood flow to the brain (causing a stroke).

🌿 Lifestyle Tips for Managing AFib

Simple daily habits can make a big difference:

🧘‍♀️ Manage stress with meditation or breathing exercises
🚶‍♀️ Stay physically active (as approved by your doctor)
🥗 Eat a heart-healthy diet — limit salt, alcohol, and processed foods
💧 Stay hydrated
💤 Maintain good sleep hygiene
🩺 Keep blood pressure and diabetes well-controlled

💊 Treatment Options

At Wellness Bay Primary Care, treatment is always personalized based on your symptoms, risk factors, and lifestyle:

Medications to control heart rate or rhythm
Blood thinners (anticoagulants) to prevent stroke
Cardiology referrals for rhythm procedures (e.g., cardioversion or ablation) when needed
Regular follow-ups and heart monitoring
Supplements such as magnesium (for mild rhythm support, if approved) bt Internist PCP Geriatrics Doctor Georgetown TX

*Supplements are supportive only — not a substitute for prescription medications or medical procedures.

💬 Top 10 FAQs about Atrial Fibrillation

1. Can AFib go away on its own?

Sometimes, especially if triggered by stress or illness, but it often recurs.

2. How serious is it?

It’s manageable — but requires attention to prevent stroke and heart failure.

3. How is AFib diagnosed?

Through ECG, Holter monitoring, or event recorders.

4. Can stress trigger AFib?

Yes, stress and sleep deprivation can increase episodes.

5. Is caffeine safe?

Small amounts may be fine — avoid excess.

6. Can I exercise with AFib?

Yes, with medical guidance. Moderate activity helps heart strength.

7. Is AFib reversible?

In some cases (e.g., thyroid issues, sleep apnea) treating the cause can reverse it.

8. What’s the best diet?

Mediterranean or DASH diet — rich in veggies, fruits, and lean protein.

9. Do I need lifelong medication?

Many patients do — but it depends on cause and risk factors.

10. When should I seek emergency care?

If you have chest pain, fainting, or extreme shortness of breath.

👩‍⚕️ When to See a Doctor

If you feel an irregular pulse or experience new heart fluttering, don’t ignore it.Early evaluation can prevent complications and keep your heart rhythm — and your confidence — steady. ❤️

💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together

The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.

📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX

📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online

Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:

Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX