Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an erratic and often fast beating of the upper part of the heart. This part of the heart pushes blood into the lower section of the heart so it can pump blood out to the body. AFib can decrease the amount of blood that is pumped out to the body. AFib may be:
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The beating of the heart is started and controlled by electrical signals. These signals start from an area of the heart called the SA node. The signals then move through the heart in an organized way. Problems with the SA node or other areas of the heart can disrupt how the heart contracts. Irregular signals may also start in other areas of the heart.
Afib may be caused by one or more of the following:
Sometimes the exact cause is not known.
AFib is more common in men and people over 55 years old.
AFib may also be more likely in those with:
Certain habits and food or drinks can increase the risk of AFib:
AFib may not cause any symptoms. Symptoms that do occur may range from mild to severe.
Fast beating in the upper part of the heart may cause:
AFib that is decreasing the amount of blood pumped out to the body may cause:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may suspect a problem after listening to the heart or hearing about symptoms. Tests to confirm may include:
For some people, AFib will go away without treatment. For others, goals of treatment may include:
The exact plan will depend on the cause of your AFib. If a cause is found, that may need to be managed first. For example, stopping or changing medicine may stop the AFib.
Steps that may help slow or stop AFib include:
AFib allows blood to pool in the upper part of the heart. Blood clots can form in this pool, travel out of the heart, and cause a stroke. Medicine will help to stop these clots from forming. Some medicine can also increase the risk of severe bleeding. Care team will track changes in the blood to keep a balance between preventing blood clots and bleeding risks.
A procedure called left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) may be considered if medicine is not an option. This procedure seals off a small area of the upper heart where clots tend to form.
Certain habits can trigger an episode of AFib or make it worse. To decrease the chance of making the AFib worse:
It is not always possible to prevent AFib. Talk to your doctor about your overall heart health. A healthy heart may reduce the risk of some AFib.
American Heart Association
http://www.heart.org
Heart Rhythm Society
http://www.hrsonline.org
Canadian Heart Rhythm Society
http://www.chrsonline.ca
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
http://www.heartandstroke.ca
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Last reviewed November 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael J. Fucci, DO, FACC
Last Updated: 2/2/2020