Atrial fibrillation is an irregular or too-rapid beating (contraction) of the heart's upper chambers (atria) that affects the movement of blood into the heart's lower chambers (ventricles). It can lead to stroke or heart failure. When the movement of blood is irregular, blood may pool and form a clot; if a clot breaks off and travels to an artery leading to the brain, stroke can result. When the heart is incapable of pumping the amount of blood required to meet the body's needs, heart failure can result. Atrial fibrillation affects more than 2.7 million people in the United States, and often requires medical intervention.
Causes of Atrial Fibrillation
Damage to, or an abnormality of, the heart is the usual cause of atrial fibrillation. Damage usually results from the following:
High blood pressure
Heart attack
Coronary artery disease
Viral infection
Sleep apnea
Metabolic imbalance
Prior heart surgery
Heart abnormalities that can lead to atrial fibrillation include various congenital heart defects, and abnormal heart valves.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
It is possible that atrial fibrillation is asymptomatic. However, in many cases, atrial fibrillation results in the following symptoms:
Palpitations
Chest pain
Fatigue
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Shortness of breath
Confusion
A reduced ability to exercise is also a symptom of atrial fibrillation.
Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.
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