Fibrillation, atrial

Fibrillation, atrial
An abnormal irregular heart rhythm whereby electrical signals are generated chaotically throughout the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. Although many persons with atrial fibrillation have no symptoms, the most common symptom is palpitations, an uncomfortable awareness of the rapid and irregular heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation can cause blood clots that travel from the heart to the brain, causing stroke. Treatment of atrial fibrillation involves controlling the risk factors, medications to slow the heart rate and/or convert the heart to normal rhythm, and preventing complications of blood clotting.

Medical dictionary. 2011.

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  • atrial fibrillation — n very rapid uncoordinated contractions of the atria of the heart resulting in a lack of synchronism between heartbeat and pulse beat called also auricular fibrillation * * * see fibrillation * * * (AF) (AFib) an arrhythmia in which minute areas… …   Medical dictionary

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  • Fibrillation auriculaire — Pour les articles homonymes, voir FA. Fibrillation auriculaire Classification et ressources externes La fibrillation auriculaire (FA) est le plus fréquent des troubles du rythme cardiaque. Elle fait partie des troubles du rythme supra… …   Wikipédia en Français

  • atrial fibrillation — Irregular rhythm (arrhythmia) of contraction of the atria (upper heart chambers). The most common major arrhythmia, it may result as a consequence of increased fibrous tissue in the aging heart, of heart disease, or in association with severe… …   Universalium

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