The Most Popular Rhythm: Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Fibrillation is the most common, sustained cardiac rhythm disorder. The incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation increases with age. Upward of 3 million people have atrial fibrillation. It is characterized by a rapid and irregular heartbeat that can be symptomatic with palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, exercise limitation or chest discomfort. In other patients, atrial fibrillation is asymptomatic. Patients are unaware that they have the disorder and it is diagnosed via electrocardiogram (ECG) during routine clinic visits.