Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can increase your risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.
During AF, the heart's two upper chambers (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly — out of coordination with the two lower chambers (the ventricles) of the heart. AF-symptoms often include heart palpitations, shortness of breath and weakness.
Episodes of AF can come and go, or you may develop AF that doesn't go away and may require treatment. Although AF itself usually isn't life-threatening, it is a serious medical condition that sometimes requires emergency treatment.
It may lead to complications. AF can lead to blood clots forming in the heart that may circulate to other organs and lead to blocked blood flow (ischemia).
Treatments for AF may include medications and other interventions to try to alter the heart's electrical system.