AF is considered Atrial Fibrillation, a heart condition characterized by an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation (AF)
Atrial fibrillation (AF) disrupts the normal rhythm of the heart. A healthy heart typically beats regularly, between 60 and 100 beats per minute at rest. In AF, the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat chaotically and irregularly, which can lead to a faster heart rate and other complications.
Key Characteristics of AF:
- Irregular Heartbeat: The hallmark of AF is an unpredictable heart rhythm.
- Fast Heart Rate: While a normal resting heart rate is 60-100 bpm, AF can cause rates significantly higher.
- Causes: Numerous factors can contribute to AF, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Thyroid problems
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Sometimes, the cause is unknown.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can vary widely, from no symptoms at all to:
- Palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Diagnosis: AF is typically diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart.
- Treatment: Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and may include:
- Medications to control heart rate and rhythm
- Blood thinners to prevent blood clots
- Procedures like cardioversion (to restore normal rhythm) or ablation (to destroy tissue causing the irregular rhythm).
Measuring Your Heart Rate
You can check your pulse to get an idea of your heart rate. Common places to check your pulse include your wrist and neck.
