HCA Florida Capital Hospital Recognizes AFib Awareness Month – Listen to Your Heart

A racing heart, unusual fatigue or shortness of breath can be easy to dismiss. But these symptoms may be signs of atrial fibrillation, or AFib, a common heart rhythm disorder that can significantly increase the risk of stroke.

During Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month this September, HCA Florida Capital Hospital is encouraging Floridians to know the signs and risk factors for AFib and talk with a healthcare provider if you have concerns, including a family history.

"Checking an electrocardiogram (EKG) at the time of AFib symptoms is the best way of diagnosing the issue, but symptoms vary and some patients have no symptoms," said Kathryn Harris, MD, interventional cardiologist with HCA Florida Capital Hospital. "Knowing your risk factors and discussing changes in your heart rhythm with your physician can help lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment."

AFib occurs when the heart's upper chambers beat irregularly, which can cause blood to pool and potentially form clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke. The American Heart Association reports people with AFib are up to five times more likely to have a stroke.

Symptoms of AFib may include:
• Rapid, fluttering or pounding heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chest discomfort
• Reduced ability to exercise

As noted, not all people with AFib experience symptoms. A 2025 nationwide survey from the American Heart Association found that 62% of patients with AFib had no prior knowledge of the condition before they were diagnosed. Risk factors include age and AFib may also be associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, heart disease and family history, which is why it is important to share this information with your doctor.

"HCA Florida Healthcare encourages people to know their risk factors, recognize possible AFib symptoms and discuss concerns with a healthcare provider," said Dr. Harris. "We will develop a personalized treatment plan for you, which may include lifestyle changes, medications and advanced procedures such as minimally invasive catheter-based or other treatment options to manage the abnormal heart rhythm and reduce the risk of complications."

HCA Florida Healthcare provides patients access to specialists and advanced services through Florida's largest cardiovascular network, offering a full range of heart, lung and vascular care. Cardiovascular and stroke care teams work together to identify patients at risk, support early intervention and help prevent complications.

That work includes HCA Healthcare and the HCA Healthcare Foundation's support of the American Heart Association's Getting to the Heart of Stroke™ initiative, which focuses on evidence-based education and interventions and stronger coordination between heart and stroke care teams. Since 2022, participating hospitals have improved identification of the cause of stroke by 33% through care team collaboration, best-practice sharing and increased use of evidence-based diagnostic testing.

To better understand your heart's health, take our free online assessment here: Heart Health Assessment | HCA Florida. Learn more about cardiovascular care and find a cardiologist at https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/capital-hospital/specialties/cardiology.