Atrial Fibrillation
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Theodoros Barlogiannis, CardiologistLast updated: 7 April 2026
Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia and is characterized by a fast, completely irregular heart rhythm. It can cause palpitations, shortness of breath and easy fatigue, but often produces no symptoms at all. It is diagnosed with an electrocardiogram or rhythm Holter and requires management, as it increases the risk of stroke.
Atrial Fibrillation is a cardiac condition characterized by rapid and irregular heartbeats. Instead of normal, coordinated contraction, the upper chambers of the heart (atria) do not contract synchronously, causing an irregular heart rhythm, known as arrhythmia, and the pooling of blood, leading to the risk of thrombus formation and a decrease in cardiac output.
What are the symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial Fibrillation can present a range of symptoms, though some individuals may not experience any symptoms. Common symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation include:
- Palpitations: Sensation of rapid or forceful heartbeats.
- Irregular Heart Rhythm: The heart may beat irregularly, often described as a "fluttering" sensation.
- Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or lack of energy.
- Dizziness: Feeling of instability or impending fainting.
- Difficulty Breathing: Breathing difficulties, especially during physical activity.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals may feel discomfort or pain in the chest, although this is less common.
- Weakness: Feeling physically weak or unable to perform daily activities.
- Fainting: In severe cases, Atrial Fibrillation can lead to fainting.
What causes Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial Fibrillation can be triggered by various factors, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain chronic conditions. It is more common in older individuals but can affect people of all ages. Some causes of Atrial Fibrillation include:
- Age: Atrial Fibrillation becomes more common with age, especially in individuals over 60.
- Obesity: Excessive weight can lead to changes in the structure and function of the heart, increasing the risk of Atrial Fibrillation.
- Stress and Anxiety: While not direct causes, chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to the onset of Atrial Fibrillation in some individuals.
- Genetics: There may be a genetic component to Atrial Fibrillation, with some families having a higher predisposition to the condition.
- Structural Heart Abnormalities: Certain congenital or acquired structural abnormalities of the heart can predispose individuals to Atrial Fibrillation.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can contribute to various cardiovascular complications, including Atrial Fibrillation.
- Thyroid Disorders: Both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid function can contribute to Atrial Fibrillation.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for Atrial Fibrillation, leading to changes in the heart that increase the likelihood of rhythm abnormalities.
- Coronary Artery Disease: Narrowing or blockage of blood vessels supplying the heart muscle can lead to Atrial Fibrillation.
- Valvular Heart Disorders: Conditions such as mitral valve stenosis or insufficiency can disrupt the normal blood flow through the heart, contributing to Atrial Fibrillation.
Treatment and Management of Atrial Fibrillation
If not properly addressed, Atrial Fibrillation can lead to serious complications, including stroke and heart failure. Seeking medical assistance and following a treatment plan is crucial.
- Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, can help manage Atrial Fibrillation.
- Medication: Medications are often prescribed to control Atrial Fibrillation. Anticoagulants are primary for preventing blood clot formation, reducing the risk of stroke, while antiarrhythmics help control the heart's rhythm and rate.
Atrial Fibrillation can be diagnosed through various tests, such as electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, and Holter monitoring. Regular check-ups and monitoring of heart function are essential for the diagnosis and effective management of Atrial Fibrillation.
Related tests at the practice
Frequently Asked Questions
What is atrial fibrillation?
It is an arrhythmia in which the heart's atria do not contract in a coordinated way but instead quiver, producing a completely irregular pulse. Blood flow becomes less efficient and blood can pool in the atria, which favours the formation of clots.
What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
The most common are palpitations or a fluttering sensation in the chest, shortness of breath, easy fatigue, dizziness and reduced exercise tolerance. A significant proportion of patients, however, have no symptoms at all and the arrhythmia is discovered incidentally on a routine electrocardiogram.
Why does atrial fibrillation increase stroke risk?
Because the atria do not empty efficiently, blood can pool and a clot may form. If the clot breaks free and travels to the brain, it causes a stroke. This is why risk assessment and appropriate antithrombotic treatment are a central part of management.
How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?
With an electrocardiogram, provided the arrhythmia is present at the time of the test. Because it often comes and goes, 24-hour or 48-hour rhythm Holter monitoring is frequently needed. A cardiac ultrasound is also performed to assess the structure and function of the heart.
Can atrial fibrillation be treated?
Effective options exist: medication to control the rhythm or the rate, antithrombotic treatment to prevent clots, and in selected cases interventional techniques such as ablation. The appropriate strategy depends on age, symptoms and coexisting conditions — consult your cardiologist.
The information above is educational and does not replace medical advice.
This information is for educational purposes. Please consult your cardiologist for personalized evaluation.