At a Glance

Q: What does an electrophysiologist do for AFib?
A: An electrophysiologist is a heart rhythm specialist who treats AFib with medications and procedures. Learn how they differ from cardiologists and why they matter.

• EPs focus on the heart’s electrical system.
• They use procedures to target AFib triggers.
• Cardiologists treat overall heart health.

Over 12 million people in the U.S. will have atrial fibrillation (AFib) by 2030, estimates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. AFib, which causes an irregular heartbeat, can become dangerous if left untreated. 

That’s where an electrophysiologist (EP) can help. But what is an EP? 

Dr. Haseeb Jafri, an electrophysiologist, explains what EPs are and how they treat AFib. 

What is an EP? 

An electrophysiologist is someone who specializes in the heart’s rhythm. Any time somebody has an abnormality or a problem with their heart’s electrical system, that’s what electrophysiologists work on.

How is an EP different from a cardiologist? 

A cardiologist is a general specialist who looks at all the areas of the heart, not only the structure but also the function and electricity. An electrophysiologist is a cardiologist who primarily specializes in the electricity of the heart and ensures that it remains normal.

How do EPs treat AFib? 

When a patient has AFib, not only do we specialize in the medications that help control the rhythm, but more importantly, we specialize in procedures that allow us to target the areas where AFib begins.  

Why should you see an EP for AFib? 

If you’ve been diagnosed with AFib or any other heart rhythm abnormality, come in and see an electrophysiologist. It may be nothing. But if it is something, we’d be more than happy to help diagnose it and make a treatment plan that works best for you.