Signs of Atrial fibrillation (Irregular heart rate)

Atrial Fibrillation (Irregular Heart Rate)

Description

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. If the abnormally beating of the heart is transient the disorder is called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The main causes of this disorder include mitral valve disease, high blood pressure, heart attacks, thyroid disease, a blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolus), stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamines), excessive alcohol drinking, viral infections and stress from other illnesses.

Symptoms

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

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be done to rule out: electrolyte abnormality, heart attack, blood clot, or thyroid disease. Echocardiogram will be performed to determine structural disease such as mitral stenosis or atrial myxoma.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Troponin
D-Dimer
X-Ray
EKG

Treatment

Any metabolic, physiologic or structural defects are corrected. 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, and 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