Atrial fibrillation, also known by other names such as atrial fibrillation, complete atrial fibrillation arrhythmia or complete atrial fibrillation tachyarrhythmia, is a common heart rhythm disorder that belongs to the supraventricular rhythm disorders. This disorder is characterized by rapid and irregular contractions of the heart's atria. These contractions are caused by an uncoordinated action of the atrial myocardial cells, i.e. the muscle cells of the heart.
Definition and Meaning
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder characterized by rapid and irregular contraction of the heart's atria, caused by uncoordinated action of the heart's muscle cells.
Other names for atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is also known by other names, such as:
- Atrial fibrillation (in the new anatomical nomenclature)
- Complete atrial fibrillation arrhythmia (CA/FA or CAFA)
- Complete atrial fibrillation tachyarrhythmia (CAF/FA)
Prevalence
Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac rhythm disorder, affecting approximately 2% of the general population. It is also more common in the elderly and those with a family history or cardiac risk factors such as:
- high blood pressure,
- coronary artery disease,
- cardiomyopathy,
- Etc.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of atrial fibrillation is based on electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography. Treatment may include:
medications to regulate the heart rhythm,
electrical cardioversion to restore a normal rhythm
placement of a pacemaker,
etc.
It is important to consult a physician to assess the most appropriate treatment options.