Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition characterized by irregular and often rapid heartbeats. During atrial fibrillation, the electrical signals in the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) become chaotic, causing the atria to quiver instead of contracting normally. As a result, the atria are not able to effectively pump blood into the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart).
The irregular electrical signals disrupt the coordination between the atria and ventricles, leading to an irregular pulse. This can result in symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, lightheadedness, and chest pain. Additionally, blood may pool in the atria, which can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart.
If left untreated, atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of complications such as stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related problems. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation.
