Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rate)

About Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rate)

Normal rhythmic contractions of the small chambers of the heart (atrium) are replaced by rapid irregular twitching of the muscular wall; the large chambers of the heart (ventricles) respond irregularly causing an irregular and many times rapid heart rate. Atrial fibrillation may come and go (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation) or persist (chronic atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is common, especially in older people. The main causes of this disorder include mitral valve disease, high blood pressure, heart failure, excessive alcohol use, an overactive thyroid, stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamines), and stress from other illnesses.

Symptoms

Palpitations, racing heart, light-headedness, shortness of breath, fainting, chest pain, anxiety.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be done to rule out: electrolyte abnormality, heart muscle damage, and thyroid disease. An echocardiogram will be performed to look for heart muscle or heart valve abnormalities.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), D-Dimer, EKG, Troponin, X-ray.

Path 2 — Over-the-Counter Options

OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

Electrolyte abnormalities are corrected and oxygen is given if needed. The heart rate is slowed by administering medications such as calcium channel blockers (diltiazem, verapamil), beta-blockers (metoprolol, esmolol), or digoxin. Anticoagulants are given for persistent atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke. When appropriate chemical or electrical cardioversion is performed to restore the normal rhythm. For more information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at` http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov or call (301)592-8573

Medical specialties

Cardiology · Pediatric Cardiology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rate).