Cardiac Rhythm Disorder due to Atrial Fibrillation

Cardiac Rhythm Disorder due to Atrial Fibrillation

Article
Healthy Lungs
Heart & Vascular Health
+5
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAJul 20, 2021

The topic Cardiac Rhythm Disorder due to Atrial Fibrillation you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Atrial Fibrillation.

Quick Summary:

  • Atrial Fibrillation (AF or AFib) is the most common and potentially serious heart rhythm disorder usually affecting older adults. The characteristic symptoms associated with this condition are rapid and irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath
  • High blood pressure, advancing age, structural or functional defects of the heart, excess weight, and alcohol consumption are some known risk factors for the condition. In Atrial Fibrillation, certain erratic impulses (abnormalities in the electrical system of the heart) are generated in the atria. The reception of these chaotic impulses by the ventricles causes inefficient pumping of blood
  • Episodes of Atrial Fibrillations can last for variable time periods and are classified according to the following types:
    • Intermittent type: In this type, the Atrial Fibrillation may come on and off periodically lasting from a few seconds to hours. It may come back to normal rhythm within 1 week on its own or can progress to a chronic condition
    • Chronic type: Here, the condition persists from more than a week (persistent Atrial Fibrillation) to more than a year (permanent Atrial Fibrillation). This type does not resolve on its own and can recur in spite of treatment
    • Lone Atrial Fibrillation or Lone AF: This type is seen in individuals who are less than 60 years of age, with generally healthy hearts, and no other risk factors. The reasons for this type of Atrial Fibrillation are not clear
  • Atrial Fibrillation constitutes nearly 33% of heart rhythm disorders and can have adverse consequences, such as heart failure or stroke, and increased risk of mortality, if left untreated. Hospitalization, to treat the condition, may be necessary in some cases of AFib
  • Atrial Fibrillation is usually managed well with medications. Sometimes, the condition may need a more aggressive therapy with mild electric shock (cardioversion), pacemaker, or surgery (catheter ablation), depending on the severity of symptoms and underlying risk factors
  • A healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity, reduced alcohol consumption, and avoidance of smoking are known to help prevent this condition
  • The prognosis for Atrial Fibrillation is dependent upon factors that include the individual’s age, the extent of heart disease (if any), and how well the condition is managed

Please find comprehensive information on Atrial Fibrillation regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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