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Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) characterised by rapid and irregular beating. This is caused by unusual electrical activity in the upper chambers (atria) of the heart which causes the lower chambers (ventricles) to beat quickly and irregularly.
- Overview
- Symptoms
- Causes
- Risk Factors
- Complications
- Prevention
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm. An irregular heart rhythm is called an arrhythmia. AFibcan lead to blood clots in the heart. The condition also increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. During atrial fibrillation, the heart's upper chambers — called the atria — b...
Symptoms of AFibmay include: 1. Feelings of a fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat, called palpitations. 2. Chest pain. 3. Dizziness. 4. Fatigue. 5. Lightheadedness. 6. Reduced ability to exercise. 7. Shortness of breath. 8. Weakness. Some people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) don't notice any symptoms. Atrial fibrillation may be: 1. Occasional,...
To understand the causes of atrial fibrillation (AFib), it may be helpful to know how the heart typically beats. The heart has four chambers: 1. The two upper chambers are called the atria. 2. The two lower chambers are called the ventricles. Inside the upper right heart chamber is a group of cells called the sinus node. The sinus node makes the si...
Things that can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib) include: 1. Age. The risk of AFibincreases as you grow older. 2. Caffeine, nicotine or illegal drug use.Caffeine, nicotine and some illegal drugs — such as amphetamines and cocaine — can cause your heart to beat faster. Use of these substances may lead to the development of more-seriou...
Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke. The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include: 1. High blood pressure. 2. Diabetes. 3. Heart failure. 4. Some types of heart valve di...
Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips: 1. Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. 2. Don't smoke or use tobacco. 3. Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat. 4. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the...
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart condition that affects the rhythm and rate of the heart. Learn about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment options from the UK's National Health Service.
315,000 with atrial flutter (2019) [10] Atrial fibrillation (AF, AFib or A-fib) is an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) characterized by rapid and irregular beating of the atrial chambers of the heart. [11][12] It often begins as short periods of abnormal beating, which become longer or continuous over time. [4]
Mar 23, 2023 · Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart arrhythmia that can cause blood clots, stroke and heart failure. Learn about the signs, causes, complications and how to manage AFib with medication, lifestyle changes and support groups.
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is an irregular heart rhythm that begins in your heart’s upper chambers (atria). Symptoms include fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing and dizziness. Afib is one of the most common arrhythmias. Risk factors include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and having obesity.
Atrial fibrillation (AF or Afib) is a type of arrhythmia where your heart beats irregularly and fast. Learn about the types, causes, symptoms, risk factors and how to prevent AF and its complications, such as stroke.
