What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation (say "AY-tree-uhl fih-bruh-LAY-shun") is a common type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Normally, the heart beats in a regular, steady rhythm. In atrial fibrillation, a problem with the heart's electrical system causes the two upper chambers of the heart (called the atria) to quiver, or fibrillate.

An episode of atrial fibrillation is not usually dangerous. But this condition can lead to problems. This is because blood can collect, or pool, in your heart if the heartbeat isn't regular and steady. And pooled blood is more likely to form clots. Clots can travel to the brain, block blood flow, and cause a stroke. Atrial fibrillation can also lead to heart failure.

This condition also upsets the normal rhythm between the atria and the lower chambers of the heart. (These chambers are called the ventricles.) The ventricles may beat fast and without a regular rhythm.

What are the symptoms?

Some people feel symptoms when they have episodes of atrial fibrillation. But other people don't notice any symptoms.

If you have symptoms, you may feel:

• A fluttering, racing, or pounding feeling in your chest called palpitations.
• Weak or tired.
• Dizzy or light-headed.
• Short of breath.
• Chest pain.

You may notice signs of atrial fibrillation when you check your pulse. Your pulse may seem uneven or fast.

What can you expect when you have atrial fibrillation?

At first, episodes of atrial fibrillation may come on suddenly and last a short time. They may go away on their own or with treatment. Over time, the episodes may last longer and occur more often. If this continues, they may not go away on their own.

How is it treated?

Treatments can help you feel better and prevent future problems, especially stroke and heart failure.

Your treatment may depend on the cause of your atrial fibrillation, your symptoms, your risk for stroke, and your preferences. Types of treatment include:

• Heart rate treatment. Medicine may be used to slow your heart rate. Your heartbeat may still be irregular. But these medicines keep your heart from beating too fast. They may also help relieve symptoms.
• Heart rhythm treatment. Different treatments may be used to try to stop atrial fibrillation and keep it from returning. They can also relieve symptoms. These treatments include:
  • Medicine.
  • Electrical cardioversion to shock the heart back to a normal rhythm.
  • A procedure called catheter ablation.
  • Heart surgery.
• Stroke prevention. You and your doctor can decide how to lower your risk. You may decide to take a blood-thinning medicine called an anticoagulant.

What is a heart-healthy lifestyle for atrial fibrillation?

A heart-healthy lifestyle can help you live well and manage atrial fibrillation. This lifestyle may help reduce how often you have symptoms.

• Try to quit or cut back on smoking and using other nicotine products.
• Try to get at least 2½ hours of physical activity a week. Talk to your doctor about what type and level of exercise is safe for you.
• Eat heart-healthy foods. These include vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, lean meat, fish, and whole grains. Limit sodium, alcohol, and sugar.
• If you drink, try to drink less. Your risk of harm from alcohol is low if you have 2 drinks or less per week. Avoid alcohol if it triggers symptoms. Work with your doctor to find what is best for you.
• Stay at a weight that is healthy for you. Talk to your doctor if you need help losing weight.
• Try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
• Manage other health problems. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. If you think you may have a problem with alcohol or drug use, talk to your doctor.