Understanding atrial fibrillation
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PrintAs defined by the National Heart, Lund and Blood Institute:
Atrial fibrillation (A-tre-al fi-bri-LA-shun), or AF, is the most common arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah). An arrhythmia is a problem with the speed or rhythm of the heartbeat. A disorder in the heart’s electrical system causes AF and other types of arrhythmia.
What causes afib? by the Heart Rhythm Society
In A Fib, the electrical signals that coordinate the muscle of the upper chambers (atria) of the heart become rapid and disorganized, typically causing the atria to beat faster than 300 beats per minute. (The normal rate when the heart is at rest is about 60 to 80 beats per minute). When this happens, the atria may contract poorly and no longer effectively force blood into the lower chambers (ventricles). As a result, the flow of blood to the body may be reduced. Atrial fibrillation may occur from time-to-time, or it may be a permanent condition.
IF TREATED APPROPRIATELY, ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AND ATRIAL FLUTTER SELDOM CAUSE SERIOUS OR LIFE-THREATENING PROBLEMS.
To find a Cardiologist who specializes in heart rhythm management and ablation of abnormal rhythms, see these links:
http://tinyurl.com/morgkz
http://tinyurl.com/kuptz5
For more information on atrial fibrillation visit:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/af/af_what.html
http://www.hrspatients.org/patients/heart_disorders/atrial_fibrillation
