Cardiovascular Markets
About Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm). It has been estimated that 5.5 million patients each year are treated for atrial fibrillation in the seven leading industrialized nations(1). Atrial fibrillation is the term used to describe an erratic and often rapid heart rate where the beat of the heart's two small upper chambers (the atria) is not coordinated with the two lower chambers (the ventricles). It commonly leads to symptoms of heart palpitations, shortness of breath and weakness, and blood clots may form. If a blood clot in the atria leaves the heart and becomes lodged in an artery in the brain, a stroke results. About 15 percent of strokes occur in people with atrial fibrillation. The risk of atrial fibrillation increases with age.
(1) Decision Resources