Diseases
atrial fibrillation
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. An arrhythmia is when the heart beats too slowly, too fast, or in an irregular way.
Symptoms
- fatigue
- chest pain
- sensations of a fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
Causes
- heart attack
- coronary artery disease
- heart defect that you're born with (congenital heart defect)
Risk factors
- heart disease
- age. the older a person is, the greater the risk
- high blood pressure.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- electrocardiogram (ecg or ekg).
- holter monitor.
- echocardiogram
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. An arrhythmia is when the heart beats too slowly, too fast, or in an irregular way.
What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
fatigue, chest pain, sensations of a fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat (palpitations), dizziness, lightheadedness
What causes atrial fibrillation?
heart attack; coronary artery disease; heart defect that you're born with (congenital heart defect)
Which medicines are used for atrial fibrillation?
bisoprolol, carvedilol, digoxin, diltiazem, dronedarone, propafenone, propranolol
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.