Is the most common cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) and involves the two upper chambers (atria) of the heart.
Irregular rapid movements of the atrial muscles without normal contraction to expel blood from the two small chambers of the heart into the ventricles.
A rapid uncoordinated fluttering of the atria of the heart, which causes an irregular heartbeat.
An arrhythmia characterized by a rapid atrial rate of 350—600 beats/min, with the ventricular rate 160-200 beats/min.
Condition characterized by rapid and random contraction of the atria of the heart causing irregular beats of the ventricles and resulting in decreased heart output and frequently clot formation in the atrial. A type of cardiac arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation occurs in rheumatic heart disease, mitral valve stenosis, and other heart disorders. Treatment is by drugs (e.g., digitalis) or electroshock to restore normal heart rhythm.
A rapid, highly irregular heartbeat caused by abnormalities in the electrical signals generated by the atria (upper chambers) of the heart. In the normal heart, the heartbeat begins in the sinus node, which is located in the upper portion of the heart. The sinus node usually generates the impulse for a heartbeat between 60 and 100 times a minute, which then spreads across the rest of the heart. In atrial fibrillation, rapid firing of electrical impulses from the atrium increases the heart rate to 100 to 175 beats per minute, with irregular intervals between the beats. Instead of contracting correctly, the atria quiver. The ventricles (lower chambers) of the heart beat irregularly and rapidly in response to this abnormal rhythm, making the heart less effective and efficient.
The most common cardiac dysrhythmia, affecting as many as 5 – 10% of people age 70 and over. It is marked by rapid, irregular electrical activity in the atria, resulting in ineffective ejection of blood into the ventricles and an irregular ventricular response (apical pulse rate). Blood that eddies in the atria may occasionally form clots that may embolize (especially to the brain, but also to other organs). As a result AF is an important risk factor for stroke. In the U.S., about 75,000 strokes occur each year in patients with AF. AF may also contribute to other diseases and conditions, including congestive heart failure, dyspnea on exertion, and syncope.
A medical condition characterized by the irregular quivering of the upper chamber of the heart instead of its organized pumping action.
Atrial fibrillation is a type of cardiac arrhythmia characterized by irregular and rapid beating of the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. This condition causes the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart, to beat irregularly as well, although at a slower pace. Consequently, the heart’s pumping efficiency is diminished, leading to a reduced ability to circulate blood effectively.
While atrial fibrillation can develop in individuals with various long-standing heart conditions, it is commonly associated with heart-valve disorders and coronary artery disease. Although it can occur in conjunction with other heart diseases, these two conditions are frequently linked to the onset of atrial fibrillation.
The sudden onset of atrial fibrillation can give rise to symptoms such as palpitations (sensation of a rapid heartbeat), angina pectoris (chest pain caused by insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle), or breathlessness. The inefficient pumping action of the heart leads to a decrease in blood output into the circulation. Furthermore, blood clots may form within the atria and potentially dislodge, entering the bloodstream and becoming lodged within an artery.
The diagnosis of atrial fibrillation is established through an electrocardiogram (ECG), a medical test that reveals the electrical activity of the heart. By examining the ECG results, healthcare professionals can confirm the presence of atrial fibrillation and assess the specific patterns and characteristics of the heart’s electrical signals. This diagnostic tool plays a crucial role in identifying and monitoring the condition.
To manage the heart rate, healthcare providers may prescribe medications such as digoxin or beta-blockers. In cases where atrial fibrillation has recently occurred, it may be possible to restore normal heart rhythm through a procedure called defibrillation, which involves delivering a brief electric shock to the heart. Additionally, anticoagulant drugs or aspirin are often administered to lower the risk of blood clots and the subsequent development of an embolism. These therapeutic approaches aim to control symptoms, restore heart function, and reduce the potential complications associated with atrial fibrillation.