Atrial Fibrillation

Also called a flutter, atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder that usually involves a rapid heart rate, in which the upper heart chambers are stimulated to contract in a very disorganized and abnormal manner. Symptoms may include palpitations, irregular pulse, dizziness or light-headedness, fainting, confusions, fatigue, shortness of breath, breathing difficulty while lying down, or sensation of tightness in the chest. Diagnostic tests and exams include blood pressure measure, echocardiograms, nuclear imaging tests, coronary angiographies, exercise treadmill ECG and an electrophysiology study. Treatment options depend on the severity of the disorder and include electrical cardioversion or IV drugs, medications, catheter procedures or radiofrequency ablation.