Atrial Fibrillation - How to Recognize It and Avoid a Stroke?

Atrial fibrillation can be the cause of ischemic stroke. Rapid diagnosis of atrial fibrillation can be critical during patient treatment. Ischemic stroke is much more common than hemorrhagic stroke in people with this condition. Heart rhythm disorders are very dangerous to health, and ischemic stroke is a very serious condition. It occurs as a result of an inadequate supply of blood to the brain. This is caused by atherosclerotic changes in the arteries. The consequences of atrial fibrillation can be very severe, so when we suspect our body of this condition, it is worth seeking care from an experienced physician who will conduct a series of tests and

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Many patients do not realize what atrial fibrillation is. It is very difficult to diagnose a condition without knowing what its symptoms might be. Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia that causes an irregular heartbeat. Most often, it is a rapid heartbeat that gives the feeling of palpitations in the chest. A properly functioning heart causes the atria and ventricles to contract in response to regular electrical impulses. These are generated in the sinus node, which acts as the body's natural pacemaker. Impulses spread through it in an orderly fashion, ensuring correct heart function. During atrial fibrillation, electrical impulses appear in various places, causing misinformation for our body. Such chaos is extremely dangerous to human health.

Causes of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is an abnormal heart rhythm that can cause dizziness, photophobia, or fainting. It can also lead to other complications, such as a stroke. Atrial fibrillation is caused by the irregular beating of the heart's upper chambers (atria). The most common cause of atrial fibrillation is damage to the heart muscle. This may have resulted from arterial hypertension, heart failure, diabetes, or an exacerbation of coronary artery disease. Other causes that can trigger this condition include excessive use of substances - cigarettes and alcohol. People with chronic obesity and vascular diseases are also at risk for stroke.

Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a type of heart arrhythmia that causes the heart to beat irregularly. The most common symptoms of atrial fibrillation can be heart palpitations. A decline in physical condition and a gradual decrease in exercise capacity can be another symptom of atrial fibrillation. Recognition of the condition is also possible through dizziness or even fainting. Atrial fibrillation is also often recognized only after a stroke or heart failure, which are very dangerous for the patient's life. It is recommended to regularly perform ECG tests, as well as stress tests, echocardiography, or a series of laboratory tests.