EKG Rhythm Analysis: Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia or abnormal rhythm characterized by an irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the heart's upper chambers, the atria, contract chaotically and out of sync with the lower chambers, called the ventricles. In AFib, the electrical signals in the atria become disorganized, causing the atria to quiver or fibrillate instead of contracting in a coordinated manner. Causes of atrial fibrillation include coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
It is a relatively common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those over the age of 60. Some people with AFib may not experience any symptoms, while others may feel palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, dizziness, or fainting. AFib can be classified as paroxysmal, meaning it's lasting less than 7 days, persistent, meaning lasting longer than 7 days, or permanent, meaning it's continuing indefinitely.
AFib is a serious condition that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. AFib is associated with a fivefold increased risk of a stroke, especially if the heart rates are elevated to above 100 beats per minute. AFib is a common cause of hospitalizations in the United States with over 400,000 cases being admitted every year with over 150,000 deaths yearly.

As you can see, the rhythm is irregular, with no discernible P waves. This is because the atria are not contracting in a coordinated manner. Instead, they are quivering or fibrillating, which creates multiple small electrical impulses that spread through the heart and cause the irregular heartbeat.

In conclusion, atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder that can be easily detected on an EKG strip. The irregular rhythm and absence of identifiable P waves are characteristic of this condition. Thank you for watching!

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