ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AN OVERVIEW

 

                                                              Atrial Fibrillation      Atrial fibrillation is a rapid , irregular arrhythmia. It is caused by the atria
    ( upper heart chambers) beating rapidly and out of character. There is no P
     wave on the EKG.

    The SA ( sinoatrial node) is the pacemaker of the heart. When the SA 
    node fires, the atria contract simultaneously. This causes blood to be
    pumped into the ventricles.

   In Atrial fibrillation the atria beats rapidly and there are no real contractions.
   The atria "quiver", but not contract.An irritable focus in the atria, seeks to do
   the work of the SA node.This results in ineffective emptying of the atria.
   Ultimately, the formation of blood clots may occur. 
    
    Causes of Atrial fibrillation include: COPD, anxiety, heart disease and more. 
    Symptoms include : chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations and dizziness.

   Beta blockers as well as calcium channel blockers are first line medications 
   used to treat A Fib. They work to control heart rate. Cardioversion is sometimes 
   done. This is usually scheduled by the doctor.
  
   The patient with Atria fibrillation, is at risk for stroke. A blood clot may travel to 
    the brain and cause a stroke.
    Learn more: What is a stroke?




Scenario: In the image above, Ann is an opera
singer. While on stage, she suddenly starts having
trouble getting her words out. Her right arm also
feels weak. These symptoms are classic of someone
experiencing a stroke.

Signs and stroke symptoms:
- sudden , severe headache
- slurred speech, mental confusion
- nausea and vomiting
- visual disturbances, hearing loss
- facial weakness
- weakness in arm or leg on one side
A CAT scan or MRI or both may be done to 
confirm diagnosis.

   Anticoagulation therapy, may also be ordered , to prevent blood clot formation.
  
 


Please enjoy watching the video: Do you know your heart





















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