Atrial Fibrillation
Also known as A-Fib, Atrial Fib, or AF
What is it?
Atrial fibrillation (A-Fib, Atrial Fib, or AF)
is a heart rhythm problem. It is a problem with
the speed and pattern of your heartbeats.
Who gets it?
Many people of all ages can develop this heart
problem; yet, atrial fibrillation itself is
rarely life threatening.
There are many causes of this condition. It
may arise without any identifiable cause or it
may be the result of underlying heart disease.
What are the symptoms?
Many people do not even realize that they are
experiencing AF. For those who do
experience symptoms, this may include heart
palpitations. Palpitations are a sensation
of a sudden pounding, fluttering, or racing of
the heartbeat. Many people describe it as a
feeling of "butterflies in their
chest". Some people also experience
dizziness and/or chest pain.
Diagnosis
A 12-lead electrocardiogram (EKG) or Holter
monitoring (24-hour EKG) confirms the diagnosis.
Treatment
Medical treatment is generally two fold
involving "chemical cardioversion" and
clot prevention. Antiarrhythmic medications are
given to chemically convert AF and restore a
normal heart rhythm. In addition, anticoagulant
medications are given to prevent blood clots from
forming. If medications do not work electrical
cardioversion may be indicated.
Surgical treatment is very rarely necessary.
However, your primary care provider can discuss
the need for further testing with an
electrophysiologist, a cardiologist who
specializes in heart rhythm disturbances, to
explore other options for treatment.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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