Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia characterized by irregular and rapid heartbeats originating from the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. In AF, the electrical signals that regulate the heartbeat become disorganized, causing the atria to quiver instead of contracting normally. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness.
Atrial fibrillation can be caused by underlying medical conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, or thyroid dysfunction, and may increase the risk of stroke and other complications. Treatment options for AF include medications to control heart rate and rhythm, procedures such as cardioversion or catheter ablation, and lifestyle changes such as weight management and stress reduction.
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