Arterial Fibrillation

During Arterial Fibrillation or Atrial Fibrillation, 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. The result is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that causes poor blood flow to the body and symptoms of heart palpitations, shortness of breath and weakness.

Causes contributing to arterial fibrillation may include (but are not limited to):

• High blood pressure
• Heart attacks
• Abnormal heart valves
• Congenital heart defects 
• An overactive thyroid or other metabolic imbalance 
• Exposure to stimulants, such as medications, caffeine, tobacco, or to alcohol 
• Sick sinus syndrome- this occurs when the heart's natural pacemaker stops functioning properly

 
* Information cited from www.mayoclinic.com.