Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder in which the atria contract chaotically at a frequency of 350-700 beats per minute. The cause of atrial fibrillation is a pathological excitation of the atrial muscles, when individual fibers of the atria seem to twitch, and the atria as a whole do not contract rhythmically.

At the same time, the ventricles contract normally, performing the main mechanical work of the heart, but their contractions occur chaotically due to the disturbed atrial rhythm. There are paroxysmal and permanent forms of atrial fibrillation.

The paroxysmal form is manifested by sudden attacks of disturbed heart rhythm. Attacks may be asymptomatic, or may be accompanied by weakness and palpitations. The severity of symptoms depends on the heart rate, duration of the attack and the condition of the heart muscle.

The permanent form is characterized by persistent heart rhythm disturbances. Diagnosis of atrial fibrillation is based on an ECG and identification of the disease underlying the arrhythmia. Treatment is aimed at stopping attacks and restoring normal sinus rhythm of the heart.