Atrial Fibrilation

Question 1

What are the structural abnormalities in AF?

Answer 1

Dilated atria

Fibrosis of the atrial muscle

Question 2

What happens in AF?

Answer 2

SAN overwhelmed by disorganized atrial electrical discharge

Question 3

What conditions predispose someone to AF?

Answer 3

Hypertension
Primary heart diseases 
Lung diseases e.g. pneumonia/ lung cancer 
Excessive alcohol consumption 
Hyperthyroidism 
Heart Failure

Question 4

What symptoms are experienced in AF?

Answer 4

Palpitations
Tired/ breathless with exercise
Sometimes chest tightness or oedema

Question 5

What are the clinical signs of AF?

Answer 5

Irregular pulse

Signs of underlying cause e.g. high BP, lung disease, valve murmur

Question 6

How is AF treated?

Answer 6

Rate control drugs e.g. digoxin, beta-blockers, verapamil
Rhythm control drugs e.g. amiodarone
Electrical shock treatment called DC Cardioversion
The pulmonary veins can be electrically isolated from the left atrium by surgery or catheter

Question 7

How is AF prevented?

Answer 7

Avoidance of excess alcohol and stimulants e.g. caffeine
Prevent blood clots using warfarin
Aspirin as alternative to warfarin