Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, represents the most prevalent sustained cardiac arrhythmia worldwide, affecting over 40 million people and increasing with age. In this condition, the heart's upper chambers (atria) quiver chaotically instead of contracting effectively, disrupting normal blood flow to the ventricles. This irregular rhythm stems from erratic electrical impulses, often exceeding 400 beats per minute in the atria.

Common symptoms vary: many experience none, while others report palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest discomfort, or fainting. Untreated, AFib heightens risks of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and even dementia.

Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, obesity, sleep apnea, and thyroid issues. Diagnosis typically involves ECG showing absent P waves and irregular R-R intervals.

Management focuses on rate/rhythm control and stroke prevention. Options include beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers for rate control, antiarrhythmics like amiodarone, electrical cardioversion, catheter ablation, or pacemakers. Anticoagulants such as apixaban reduce clot risk; alternatives like Watchman devices suit non-tolerant patients.

Lifestyle measures—weight loss, exercise, and alcohol moderation—improve outcomes. Early intervention enhances quality of life.