Uncontrolled Atrial Fibrillation

What is it?

Atrial Fibrillation is a rhythm disorder characterised by rapid, irregular atrial impulses and ineffective atrial contractions. Uncontrolled Atrial Fibrillation is when the heart rate response lies outside normal limits (i.e. 50 to 120 beats per minute). If Atrial Fibrillation is uncontrolled, cardiac output may be compromised by periods of inappropriate tachycardia and bradycardia. Pauses may also be evident with an uncontrolled ventricular response.

Additional Information

Atrial Fibrillation (also known as AF), is an abnormal heartbeat that affects the atria (upper chambers of the heart). During AF the atria quiver rather than contract normally because of rapid and irregular electrical signals in the heart. The result is an abnormally fast and/or slow irregular heartbeat. Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is directly caused by inconsistent signals in the heart’s electrical system. Some conditions that may contribute to AF and are considered risk factors for the condition include: High Blood Pressure, Coronary Artery Disease, Previous Heart Attack, Valvular Heart disease, Diabetes and Thyroid Disease.

Treatment Options

Treatment options are varied and depend entirely on the nature of your individual condition. You will be advised by your doctor as to the right treatment for you. One of the risks of atrial fibrillation is stroke and treatment may or may not be required to reduce this risk.