fibrillálás

Fibrillation is a medical condition characterized by the rapid and irregular contraction of heart muscle fibers, leading to ineffective pumping of blood. This condition can occur in various parts of the body, with cardiac fibrillation being the most critical. Cardiac fibrillation can be classified into two main types: atrial fibrillation and ventricular fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of cardiac fibrillation, affecting approximately 2.7 million people in the United States alone. It occurs when the electrical impulses that regulate the heart's rhythm become disorganized, causing the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) to quiver instead of contracting effectively. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. While AFib is often asymptomatic, it can increase the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events.

Ventricular fibrillation, on the other hand, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the electrical impulses disrupt the normal rhythm of the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart). This results in chaotic contractions of the heart muscle, leading to a loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Ventricular fibrillation is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention, such as defibrillation, to restore a normal heart rhythm.

Fibrillation can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the lungs (pulmonary fibrillation) or skeletal muscles (muscle fibrillation). These conditions are less common and typically less severe than cardiac fibrillation.

The diagnosis of fibrillation involves a physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), and sometimes additional tests like an echocardiogram or Holter monitor. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of fibrillation. For AFib, medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures like catheter ablation may be used. Ventricular fibrillation requires immediate defibrillation and may be followed by other treatments to prevent recurrence.

Prevention strategies for fibrillation include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Regular check-ups and monitoring can also help detect and manage fibrillation early.