Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heart rhythm, or arrhythmia. Normally the heart beats in a steady, coordinated way, but in AF the upper chambers (the atria) receive disordered electrical signals and quiver instead of contracting properly. This makes the heartbeat irregular and often faster than usual. AF can come and go or be persistent, and it is one of the most common rhythm disorders.

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm problems and becomes more frequent with age, affecting a notable proportion of older adults. It can occur in younger people too, especially those with other heart conditions. Both men and women are affected. Because AF sometimes causes no symptoms, some people only discover it during a routine check or pulse measurement.

Common symptoms include palpitations (a sensation of a racing, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat), breathlessness, tiredness, dizziness, and reduced ability to exercise. Some people feel chest discomfort. Many others have no symptoms and only learn of AF when a healthcare professional checks their pulse or heart rhythm. Symptoms may come and go depending on the type of AF.

AF often occurs alongside other conditions such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, or an overactive thyroid. Risk increases with age and with diabetes, obesity, heavy alcohol use, and sleep apnoea. Sometimes no clear cause is found. A family history of the condition can also make AF more likely to develop.

AF is usually confirmed with an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the heart's electrical activity and shows the irregular rhythm. Because AF can come and go, a portable monitor worn for a day or longer may be used to capture episodes. A doctor will also check your pulse, review symptoms, and may arrange blood tests or an echocardiogram to look for underlying causes.

Treatment has two main goals: controlling the heart rate or rhythm, and reducing the risk of stroke. Options include medicines to slow or steady the heartbeat and, where appropriate, treatments that help reduce stroke risk. Some people may be offered procedures to restore a normal rhythm. Managing related conditions and adopting heart-healthy habits also play an important role.

Not all cases can be prevented, but healthy habits lower the risk. These include keeping blood pressure under control, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and not smoking. Treating conditions such as thyroid problems and sleep apnoea also helps. Regular check-ups allow early detection, and managing risk factors may reduce how often episodes occur.