What happens during atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that results from chaotic electrical impulses in the atria. During this condition, the atria do not contract in a coordinated manner, leading to a twitching or quivering motion. This is in contrast to a normal heartbeat, where the atria contract regularly and efficiently to pump blood into the ventricles.

The chaotic activity in the atria affects the heart’s ability to effectively move blood into the ventricles, which can lead to various complications such as blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. By understanding that atrial fibrillation involves this irregular twitching of the atria, one can better appreciate the significant impact this arrhythmia has on overall cardiovascular health and the importance of proper diagnosis and management.