Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a relatively common cardiac arrhythmia that results in a rapid irregular heart rhythm. It is caused by a malfunction of the heart's electrical system, and the malfunction originates in the atria of the heart.
Although it may not sound like a serious disease; it can lead to serious health problems.
- The rapid irregular heartbeat disrupts the rhythm of the heart and the flow of blood through the heart is slowed down. This can lead to the pooling of blood in the atria and the formation of a blood clot. If the clot is pumped into the circulatory system, it can travel to the brain causing a stroke. Similarly, a clot can become lodged in the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism.
- Atrial fibrillation can decrease the flow of blood to the body and over a long period of time, lead to heart failure.
Causes
- Hypertension (most common cause)
- Rheumatic Heart Disease
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Pericarditis
- Acute Alcohol Intoxication
- Atrial Septal Defect (congenital heart disease)
- Myocardial Infarction
- Aortic Stenosis