Atrial Fibrillation
Definitions, symptoms, treatment, and prevention
In this three part series, we will discuss the cardiac disorder called atrial fibrillation (also called a-fib, or AF), which, although not usually life-threatening, can cause serious complications and requires immediate medical attention. Atrial fibrillation is the most common kind of fibrillation (fibrillation can affect any muscle), and is the most common cardiac rhythm disorder. Approximately 2 to 5 million Americans currently have AF, while another 150,000 cases are diagnosed each year. AF can also lead to other cardiac related disorders, such as quintupling your risk of stroke.
In the first lesson in the series, we will discuss the definition, history, and causes of AF.
In the second lesson, we will cover the symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and complications of AF.
Finally, in the third lesson, We will review clinical and at-home treatment, as well as drugs associated with curing the disorder.
