ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial Fibrillation is an arrhythmia that originates in the left upper chamber of the heart creating a chaotic irregular electrical signal that interferes and overrides the natural pacemaker of the heart. A similar condition, atrial flutter, occurs in the right upper chamber of the heart and often coincides with atrial fibrillation. Possible triggers include:
Other Heart Conditions
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Atrial Fibrillation
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Infections
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Lung Diseases
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Post-Surgery
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Sick Sinus Syndrome
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Sleep Apnea
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Stimulants (Tobacco, Caffeine, Medications, Alcohol)
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Thyroid Disease
Atrial Fibrillation disrupts the normal rhythm of the heart and may manifest as shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, fainting, or no symptoms at all.
How is AFIB Diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes a combination of pulse check, listening to heart sounds with the following tests:
What is the Treatment for AFIB?
The treatment goals for AFib include rate control, resetting the rhythm, and preventing clots that may travel to the brain and lead to a stroke. Strategies used to achieve these goals include:
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Anti-arrhythmic Medications
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Blood Thinners
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Medications used to control the heart rate