Atrial Fibrilation

Question 1

What structures are affected and what happens to them?

Answer 1

Both atria - become dilated. The atrial muscle becomes fibrosed.

Pulmonary veins also affected.

Question 2

How does this affect the heart?

Answer 2

Causes disorganised atrial electrical discharge which overwhelms the SAN.

Atria constantly weakly fluttering (weak contractions)

Question 3

What prior events cause this?

Answer 3

Hypertension 
Hyperthyroidism 
Heart failure 
Heart disease 
Lung disease 
Too much alcohol

Question 4

What are the SYMPTOMS

Answer 4

Palpitations
Tired
Check tightness (angina)
Oedema

Question 5

What are the SIGNS

Answer 5

Irregular pulse

One of the underlying causes (high blood pressure/ heart disease etc.)

Question 6

How to treat?

Answer 6

Slow down heart rate using beta blockers, digoxin, verapamil.

Get a regular rhythm either using amiodarone or electric shock treatment

Electrically isolate pulmonary veins by surgery.

Question 7

Alternative secondary treatments?

Answer 7

Treat the diseases before they cause fibrillation.

Prevent blood clots using warfarin. Could also use aspirin.