Atrial Fibrillation

Question 1

Causes

Answer 1

Hypoxia, hypertension, CHF, CAD, dysfunction of the sinus node, mitral valve disorders, rheumatic heart disease, pericarditis, hyperthyroidism

Question 2

Signs and Symptoms

Answer 2

Heart palpitations, irregular pulse (feels too rapid or too slow, racing, pounding, or fluttering) Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, confusion, fatigue, trouble breathing or difficulty breathing, tight sensation in chest

Question 3

Risks

Answer 3

Clot formation in the atria, stroke, PE, dramatic drop in cardiac output

Question 4

Medical Treatments

Answer 4

Rate control (slow ventricular rate 80-100 bpm) anti-thrombolytic, correction of rhythm, chemical or electrical cardio-version