Atrial Fibrillation
Alternate Terms:- Auricular Fibrillation
- A-Fib
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of persistent, irregular heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmia). In atrial fibrillation, the heart's upper chambers beat irregularly, affecting blood flow to the heart muscle and to the rest of the body.
Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots, which can cause a transient ischemic attack (TIA), stroke, or other problems.
The heartbeat may return to normal on its own, or it may require medicine or electrical shock (cardioversion). Medicines called anticoagulants (blood thinners) are usually needed to prevent stroke and other complications if the heart cannot be returned to its normal rhythm.
| Author: | Robin Parks, MS |
| Medical Review: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine John M. Miller, MD - Electrophysiology |
| Last Updated: December 18, 2008 | |
© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise discalims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.