Atrial Fibrillation

Overview

Atrial Fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder in which the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat irregularly and rapidly. Instead of a coordinated heartbeat, the atria quiver, causing an irregular and often fast pulse.

This abnormal rhythm can reduce the heart’s efficiency in pumping blood and increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart complications. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help control symptoms and reduce long-term risks.

At Moolchand Hospital, experienced cardiologists provide advanced evaluation and treatment for atrial fibrillation using modern cardiac monitoring and personalized therapy.

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

In a healthy heart, electrical signals travel in an organized pattern that controls the heartbeat. In atrial fibrillation, multiple chaotic electrical signals occur in the atria, causing them to contract irregularly.

This irregular rhythm can lead to poor blood flow and pooling of blood in the atria, which may increase the risk of clot formation.

Symptoms

Some people with atrial fibrillation may have no symptoms, while others may experience noticeable signs.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
  
  

• Fatigue or weakness
  
  

• Shortness of breath
  
  

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
  

• Chest discomfort
  
  

• Reduced exercise tolerance
  
  

Symptoms may occur intermittently or persist continuously.

Types of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation may occur in different patterns:

Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Episodes begin suddenly and stop on their own within a short period.

Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

Irregular rhythm continues for longer and may require treatment to restore normal rhythm.

Long-Standing Persistent AF

Irregular rhythm persists for a long duration.

Permanent Atrial Fibrillation

The abnormal rhythm becomes permanent and treatment focuses on heart rate control and preventing complications.

Causes

Several conditions can contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation.

Common causes include:

• High blood pressure
  
  

• Coronary artery disease
  
  

• Heart valve disorders
  
  

• Heart failure
  
  

• Hyperthyroidism
  
  

• Lung diseases
  
  

• Excess alcohol consumption
  
  

In some cases, AF may occur without a clearly identifiable cause.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase the risk of atrial fibrillation include:

• Increasing age
  
  

• High blood pressure
  
  

• Diabetes
  
  

• Obesity
  
  

• Sleep apnea
  
  

• Family history of heart disease
  
  

• Smoking
  
  

Managing these risk factors can help reduce the likelihood of AF.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose atrial fibrillation through several tests.

Common diagnostic methods include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal heart rhythm
  
  

• Holter monitoring for continuous rhythm recording
  
  

• Echocardiography to evaluate heart structure and function
  
  

• Blood tests to check thyroid and metabolic conditions
  
  

• Stress testing if coronary artery disease is suspected
  
  

Accurate diagnosis helps guide the most effective treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment aims to control heart rhythm, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of stroke.

Medications

Doctors may prescribe medications to:

• Control heart rate
  
  

• Restore normal heart rhythm
  
  

• Prevent blood clots
  
  

Electrical Cardioversion

A controlled electrical shock may be used to restore normal heart rhythm.

Catheter Ablation

A minimally invasive procedure that targets abnormal electrical pathways causing AF.

Stroke Prevention

Blood-thinning medications may be recommended to prevent clot formation.

Treatment is individualized based on each patient’s health and risk profile.

Possible Complications

If untreated, atrial fibrillation may lead to serious complications such as:

• Stroke due to blood clots
  
  

• Heart failure
  
  

• Reduced heart function
  
  

• Persistent fatigue and reduced quality of life
  
  

Proper medical care significantly lowers these risks.

Prevention and Lifestyle Support

Certain lifestyle changes can help reduce AF risk and improve heart health:

• Maintaining healthy blood pressure
  
  

• Regular physical activity
  
  

• Weight management
  
  

• Limiting alcohol intake
  
  

• Treating sleep apnea
  
  

• Managing stress
  
  

Heart-healthy habits play an important role in prevention.

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital?

Patients choose Moolchand Hospital for cardiac care because of:

• Experienced cardiologists and electrophysiology specialists
  
  

• Advanced cardiac monitoring and imaging facilities
  
  

• Comprehensive arrhythmia management
  
  

• Multidisciplinary heart care teams
  
  

• Patient-centered care in a trusted healthcare environment
  
  

Located in Lajpat Nagar, the hospital serves patients searching for a heart hospital in Delhi, best cardiac hospital in Delhi, and hospital near Lajpat Nagar.