What're the complications of atrial fibrillation?
The most devastating complication of atrial fibrillation occurs when a blood clot forms in the left atrium, travels to the left ventricle, and is pumped to the brain. When a blood clot lodges in one of the arteries supplying the brain with blood, it can block blood flow to that part of the brain and cause a stroke. Stroke can be severe and can cause permanent paralysis of part of the body, speech impairment, and even death. Unfortunately, stroke can occur at any time, usually without warning.
If the heart is unable to pump an adequate amount of blood to the body, as in some people with AF, the body begins to compensate by retaining fluid. This can lead to a condition called heart failure. Heart failure results in the accumulation of fluid in the lower legs (edema) and the lungs (pulmonary edema). Pulmonary edema makes breathing more difficult and reduces the ability of the lung to add oxygen to and remove carbon dioxide from the blood. The levels of oxygen in the blood can drop, and the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood can rise, a complication called respiratory failure. This is a life-threatening complication. |
More information on atrial fibrillation
What is atrial fibrillation (AF)? - Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an electrical rhythm disturbance of the heart affecting the atria. Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of irregular heartbeat.
What causes atrial fibrillation? - Atrial fibrillation is associated with many cardiac conditions, including cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease.
What're the symptoms of atrial fibrillation? - Symptoms of atrial fibrillation include palpitations, fainting, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath and angina pectoris.
What're the complications of atrial fibrillation? - The most devastating complication of atrial fibrillation occurs when a blood clot forms in the left atrium and is pumped to the brain.
How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed? - The diagnosis of atrial fibrillation includes a medical history and physical examination, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and an echocardiogram.
What's the treatment for atrial fibrillation? - Treatment for atrial fibrillation depends on the underlying cause. A highly effective, safe treatment for atrial fibrillation is still an unmet medical need. |
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