Atrial fibrillation

Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm. People with AF have an irregular and sometimes fast pulse, although you may also have a slow pulse rate. Atrial fibrillation happens because, as well as the sinus node sending out regular electrical impulses, different places in and around the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) also produce electrical impulses, in an uncoordinated way. These multiple impulses make the atria quiver or twitch, which is known as fibrillation.

Treatment: What type of treatment you need will depend on several factors, including what type of AF you have, the symptoms you’re having, and your overall health.

AF also increases your risk of developing a blood clot inside the chambers of the heart. If the clot breaks off it could cause a stroke. To reduce this risk, you may need to take anticoagulant medicines to help prevent blood clots from forming.