What Is Atrial Fibrillation?
General information on atrial fibrillation, the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder, its symptoms, its link with stroke risk and the importance of medical follow-up.
Definition
Atrial fibrillation is a rhythm disorder in which the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) quiver rapidly and irregularly instead of contracting in an orderly way. It is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder, and its frequency rises with age. High blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disorders and diabetes can predispose to it.
- Definition
- Irregular, rapid activity of the atria
- Frequency
- The most common sustained arrhythmia
- Main significance
- Increased stroke risk
- Diagnosis
- Pulse examination and ECG
Symptoms
Palpitations, a sense of irregular heartbeat, easy fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort and dizziness may occur. A substantial share of cases cause no symptoms at all and are noticed during routine examinations or through alerts from devices such as smartwatches. Absence of symptoms does not mean absence of risk.
The link with stroke risk
In quivering atria, blood flow slows and clots can form. If such a clot reaches the brain it can cause a stroke, which is why atrial fibrillation ranks among the leading preventable causes of stroke. Individual risk varies; physicians score it using factors such as age, blood pressure, diabetes and previous stroke, and decide on that basis whether treatment to prevent clot formation is needed.
Diagnosis and follow-up
The cornerstone of diagnosis is the ECG; prolonged rhythm recordings are used where needed. People who notice an irregular pulse are advised to see a physician even without symptoms. The treatment plan covers rhythm regulation, heart rate control and stroke risk reduction, and is personalised by the cardiologist.
This page is intended as general health information; for diagnosis and treatment, please consult your physician.
Frequently asked questions
Is atrial fibrillation dangerous?
The rhythm itself is rarely an immediate threat to life; its main significance is the increased stroke risk. That risk varies by person, is assessed by the physician and can be substantially reduced with proper follow-up.
I have palpitations. Is it atrial fibrillation?
Palpitations have many causes, most of them harmless. The distinction can only be made with an ECG; recurrent irregular pulse sensations warrant a medical visit.
Are smartwatch alerts reliable?
Such alerts serve as screening, not diagnosis. Anyone receiving an alert is advised to see a physician for ECG evaluation.
How is stroke risk reduced?
The physician scores the risk according to age and accompanying conditions and decides whether treatment to prevent clot formation is needed. Blood pressure control and regular follow-up also lower the risk.
Aymed İlaç Sanayi manufactures authorised medicinal products. This page does not contain diagnostic or treatment advice; it is intended as general health information.