The irregularity in the rate of Heart rhythm is termed as Atrial Fibrillation. Arrhythmias are caused due to electrical signal disturbances in the heart. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of Heart Attack and Stroke. A person having diabetes, high blood pressure and Heart Disease are more under the risk of developing the Atrial Fibrillation.

Atrial Fibrillation occurs when the coordination between the upper chambers of Heart (Atrium) not work in synchronization with the Lower chambers of Heart (ventricles). In Afib, the electrical signals are fast, irregular and disorganized, and the heart may not pump as efficiently.

Afib increases the risk of Stroke and Heart Attack. In Atrial Fibrillation, the atria do not adequately pump blood, blood pools and get stuck in the heart grooves. They may cause blood clots which can restrict the blood flow to the brain. In Afib, the irregular and fast Heart Beats can cause an insufficient supply of blood to the heart which can cause Heart Failure or Heart Attack.

If your atrial fibrillation is undetected or left untreated, serious and even life-threatening complications can arise. Dr. Dinesh Sehgal (Interventional Cardiologist, Sapra Multispecialty Hospital) explains the type of Atrial Fibrillation, their causes and symptoms so to prevent a worse condition to appear from.

Types of Atrial fibrillation

Paroxysmal: These are the temporary abnormal Heart rhythms that start suddenly and then the heart returns to a normal beat on its own, usually within 24 hours.

Persistent: These are the abnormal Heart rhythms that last more than a week. In this medical treatment is needed to return the heart to a normal rhythm.

Permanent: These are the irregular heart rhythm that lasts for more than a year despite medications and other treatments. Some people with permanent Atrial fibrillation do not feel any symptoms or require medications.

Causes of Atrial Fibrillation

High blood pressure, Coronary artery disease which has led to a heart attack, Coronary artery bypass surgery, Diabetes, Myocarditis or pericarditis – infection or inflammation of the heart, Hyperthyroidism – overactive thyroid, Heavy alcohol use, Unhealthy weight, and Age.

Symptoms an AFib person suffering from can experience are

Palpitations, Short Breathing, Restlessness, Dizziness, Discomfort in the upper portion of the chest, and anxiety.

The treatment for Atrial fibrillation is based on the risks, medical profile, and symptoms that a person is suffering from.