Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms, Causes, Risks and Treatments

By EmpowHER

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An abnormal heart beat could be atrial fibrillation. In this condition, the heart’s rhythm is atypical and the heart beat is generally rapid. The heart has two atria, or upper chambers. The signals from the heart tell the heart muscle to contract, and those signals start in the atria.

In this condition, those signals in the atria are irregular and too quick. This affects the whole heart and it becomes inefficient at pumping blood.

Clots can sometimes form, and in severe situations the clots can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Besides the feeling of irregular heart beats, symptoms can include dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, pain and pressure in the chest.

Causes of this condition include an existing heart condition and thyroid disorder. Risk factors include cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure.

Treatment options include medication and certain procedures. Prevent this condition by avoiding alcohol and caffeine.