Condition Basics
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (say "AY-tree-uhl fih-bruh-LAY-shun") is a common type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Normally, the heart beats in a regular, steady rhythm. In atrial fibrillation, a problem with the heart's electrical system causes the two upper chambers of the heart (called the atria) to quiver, or fibrillate.
An episode of atrial fibrillation is not usually dangerous. But this condition can lead to problems. This is because blood can collect, or pool, in your heart if the heartbeat isn't regular and steady. And pooled blood is more likely to form clots. Clots can travel to the brain, block blood flow, and cause a stroke. Atrial fibrillation can also lead to heart failure.
This condition also upsets the normal rhythm between the atria and the lower chambers of the heart. (These chambers are called the ventricles.) The ventricles may beat fast and without a regular rhythm.
What causes it?
Atrial fibrillation is caused by health problems that damage or strain the heart and its electrical system. These problems include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Other causes include heart surgery, lung disease, or an overactive thyroid gland.
What are the symptoms?
Some people feel symptoms when they have episodes of atrial fibrillation. But other people don't notice any symptoms. There are a few different symptoms, such as feeling dizzy, tired, or short of breath. Some people feel a fluttering, racing, or pounding feeling in their chest (called palpitations).
How is it diagnosed?
To see if you have atrial fibrillation, you will have an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). An EKG is a test that checks for problems with the heart's electrical activity. Your doctor will do a physical exam. You may have other tests that check the health of your heart.
How is atrial fibrillation treated?
Treatments can help you feel better and prevent future problems, especially stroke and heart failure.
Your treatment may depend on the cause of your atrial fibrillation, your symptoms, your risk for stroke, and your preferences. Types of treatment include:
- Heart rate treatment. Medicine may be used to slow your heart rate. Your heartbeat may still be irregular. But these medicines keep your heart from beating too fast. They may also help relieve symptoms.
- Heart rhythm treatment. Different treatments may be used to try to stop atrial fibrillation and keep it from returning. They can also relieve symptoms. These treatments include:
- Medicine.
- Electrical cardioversion to shock the heart back to a normal rhythm.
- A procedure called catheter ablation.
- Heart surgery.
- Stroke prevention. You and your doctor can decide how to lower your risk. You may decide to take a blood-thinning medicine called an anticoagulant.