fibrillatio

Fibrillation refers to an abnormal cardiac rhythm characterized by rapid, irregular, and unsynchronized contractions of the heart muscle. This disorganized electrical activity prevents the heart chambers from effectively pumping blood. There are two primary types of fibrillation: atrial fibrillation (AF) and ventricular fibrillation (VF).

Atrial fibrillation affects the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. In AF, the atria quiver rather than contracting normally. This can lead to a rapid and irregular pulse. While AF can cause symptoms like palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue, it is not immediately life-threatening, although it increases the risk of stroke due to blood clots forming in the quivering atria.

Ventricular fibrillation affects the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body. VF is a medical emergency characterized by chaotic electrical signals in the ventricles, causing them to quiver ineffectively. This results in no blood being pumped, leading to loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. Immediate defibrillation, an electrical shock to restore a normal rhythm, is required to save a life. Fibrillation can be caused by various factors including heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications.