Arterial Fibrillation
Arterial Fibrillation (A-Fib)
A disease of the heart characterized by irregular and often faster heartbeat.
Common (More than 200,000 cases per year in US)
Often requires lab test or imaging
Treatable by a medical professional
Can last several years or be lifelong
This condition develops when the upper two chambers of the heart (atria) do not work in co-ordination with the lower two chambers (ventricles) of the heart. Mainly noted symptoms include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and weakness. Treatment aims to reset the heart’s rhythm to normal. Procedures are instrumental in destroying small areas of heart tissue to prevent abnormal electrical signals, and medications help in controlling the heart rate.
Damaged Artery
Most people with atrial fibrillation show no symptoms. Some of the noted symptoms include:
- Heart palpitations – feeling of the heart racing or beating irregularly
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Reduced ability to be physically active
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
- Confusion
- Chest pain
Treatments
Treatment aims to reset the heart’s rhythm to normal. Procedures are instrumental in destroying small areas of heart tissue to prevent abnormal electrical signals, and medications help in controlling the heart rate.
Medication
- Anti-arrhythmic drugs: Given orally or intravenously to restore normal functions of the sinus node.
Quinidine · Dofetilide · Propafenone - Anticoagulants: To prevent blood clot and stroke.
Warfarin