Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most serious type of fibrillation. AFib is a type of arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm, characterized by rapid and irregular beating of the atria. This can lead to a number of serious complications, including increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and even death.
AFib can be caused by any number of underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or heart valve problems. It can also be caused by certain medications and lifestyle factors, such as stress, alcohol consumption, or tobacco use.
AFib can lead to a number of serious complications, such as an increased risk of stroke. When the heart is not pumping effectively, the risk of blood clots forming increases, as the blood pools in the atria, rather than being pumped out. These clots can then travel through the bloodstream and cause a stroke.
AFib can also lead to an increased risk of heart failure, as the weakened heart muscle is unable to pump blood as effectively as it should. This can lead to a buildup of fluid in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, and can even damage the heart muscle itself, leading to further complications.
Finally, AFib can also increase the risk of death, as the lack of efficient heart pumping can lead to a number of other serious medical conditions, such as cardiac arrest or heart attack.
For these reasons, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms of AFib, such as chest pain, palpitations, or shortness of breath. Early diagnosis and treatment is key to reducing the risk of serious complications associated with AFib.