Atrial fibrillation, Afib, is an abnormal heart rhythm, also known as an arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation is described as rapid and irregular beating of the atrium, the upper chamber of the heart. In most cases, episodes occur as brief periods of rapid and out of sync beating lasting less than 24 hours. However, this may become longer lasting and potentially permeant over time.
In many cases episodes of atrial fibrillation will be asymptomatic. However, in some cases people may experience light headedness, fainting, heart palpitations, shortness of breath or chest pain. Atrial fibrillation is also associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart failure and dementia.
There are several factors and pre-existing conditions that can increase a person’s risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
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