Atrial Fibrillation
2min read
#NEETPG #INICET #FMG #FMGMCIEXAM #MEDICINEVIDEOLECTURES #RAPIDREVISIONMEDICINE #NEETSS
Notice the irregular RR interval with absence of P waves which is characteristic feature of Atrial fibrillation. You can differentiate from multifocal atrial tachycardia which has >3 morphology of P waves present. |
Common causes of Atrial fibrillation: ABCD- OT
|
Clinical features of Atrial fibrillation
- Irregular Heartbeat: The hallmark of AFib is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. The pulse may feel chaotic and irregular when palpating the wrist.
- Palpitations: Some individuals with AFib may feel palpitations, which are sensations of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats.
- Fatigue: AFib can lead to reduced cardiac output, causing fatigue and a sense of low energy.
- Shortness of Breath: Pooling of blood in lungs due to Inability of the heart to pump blood effectively can result in shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Inadequate blood flow to the brain due to irregular heartbeats can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort While chest pain is not as common in AFib as it is in some other heart conditions, some individuals may experience chest discomfort.
- Syncope (Fainting): In severe cases, AFib can lead to a drop in blood pressure, causing fainting or loss of consciousness.
- Increased Risk of Stroke: A.Fib is associated with an increased risk of blood clot formation in the atria, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Some individuals may not have noticeable symptoms but are at risk of stroke.
Creating a mnemonic can be a helpful memory aid for remembering the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Here’s a mnemonic for the general principles of AFib treatment:
Management of Atrial fibrillation: RACE (Remembering “RACE” can help you recall the key components of atrial fibrillation treatment)
|