Atrial Fibrillation Health Center

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Medical Reference Related to Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Disease

Information on atrial fibrillation and abnormal heartbeat, including the causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Atrial Fibrillation - Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

If medication is not effective or not tolerated for atrial fibrillation, a nonsurgical procedure called radiofrequency catheter ablation may be chosen. In this procedure thin, flexible wires are inserted into a vein in the groin and threaded up through the vein and into the heart. Through an electrode at the tip of the wires, radio waves can be delivered to selectively destroy heart tissue ...
Atrial Fibrillation - Electrical Cardioversion for Atrial Fibrillation

Electrical cardioversion is a procedure in which an electric current is used to reset the heart's rhythm back to its regular pattern (normal sinus rhythm). The low - voltage electric current enters the body through metal paddles or patches applied to the chest wall. Cardioversion is used:To stop atrial fibrillation that has not stopped on its own or after a trial of antiarrhythmic medications has
Atrial Fibrillation - History and Physical Exam for Atrial Fibrillation

Asking questions about your medical history and doing a physical exam for atrial fibrillation can reveal important information about your health and will often direct more testing.Your doctor may ask the following questions:What symptoms, if any, have you experienced?Have you experienced a sensation of fluttering in your chest? Any lightheadedness? Any chest pain? Any shortness of breath?Have you
Atrial Fibrillation - Pacemaker for Atrial Fibrillation

A pacemaker is a battery - powered device about the size of a pocket watch that sends weak electrical impulses to “set a pace” so that the heart is able to maintain a regular heartbeat. There are two basic types of pacemakers:Single - chamber pacemakers stimulate one chamber of the heart, either an atrium or more often a ventricle. Dual - chamber pacemakers send electrical impulses to both the
Atrial Fibrillation - Maze Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation

The maze procedure is a surgical treatment for atrial fibrillation.
Atrial Fibrillation - Should I try cardioversion for atrial fibrillation?

Cardioversion for atrial fibrillation can return your heart rate to a normal sinus rhythm. However,atrial fibrillation often returns. Consider the following when making your decision: If your atrial fibrillation is not caused by a permanent underlying heart condition,cardioversion is often an effective way to restore your heart to a normal rhythm. Cardioversion is less successful if you have ...
Atrial Fibrillation - Atrial fibrillation: Taking anticoagulants safely

Key pointsWhen taken properly, anticoagulants can reduce your risk of stroke from atrial fibrillation.Certain precautions should be followed when taking anticoagulants.Regular blood monitoring is needed while taking anticoagulants.You will need to take anticoagulants as long as you have atrial fibrillation. What are anticoagulants? Why are anticoagulants used for atrial fibrillation? How do I ...