Atrial Fibrillation on the Rise: Know the Warning Signs

LONG BEACH — Atrial fibrillation — a quivering or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) — is a leading contributor to stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. The stakes are significant: medical research shows that AFib carries a five-fold increase in the risk of stroke.

In recognition of AFib Awareness Month this September, Dignity Health St Mary Medical Center wants community members to know the critical importance of early diagnosis and the comprehensive cardiovascular services available to support patient health.

“At Dignity Health, we view early and accurate detection as the cornerstone of clinical Excellence,” said Dr Nikhil Kapoor, director of Interventional Cardiovascular Services at Dignity Health St Mary Medical Center. “Because AFib can sometimes be silent, many patients may not realize they are at risk until a serious event occurs. Our mission is to ensure our community recognizes the signs—such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue—and knows that our expert cardiac teams are here to provide world-class, personalized care.”

Dignity Health’s cardiovascular programs are recognized for their clinical excellence, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based practices to diagnose and treat complex rhythm disorders. From advanced electrophysiology labs to minimally invasive procedures like catheter ablation, Dignity Health provides a comprehensive continuum of care that prioritizes patient safety and improved long-term outcomes.

“Being a leader in cardiovascular care means going beyond treatment; it means partnering with our patients on their health journey through education and proactive management,” added Kapoor. “We encourage everyone, particularly those with risk factors like high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease, to talk to their physician about their heart rhythm. Early intervention can be the difference between a life-altering stroke and a healthy, active future.”

Throughout September, Dignity Health St Mary Medical Center is providing educational resources to help the community better understand heart health and the specialized cardiovascular services available across our Southern California locations.

Visit Dignity Health’s website to learn more about AFib symptoms, risk factors, or to find a cardiologist near you.