When the heart is not beating at its normal rhythm, blood may collect in the atria and may form a clot. If the blood clot is pumped into the body's bloodstream, the clot may end up in the brain and cause a stroke. Heart attacks and heart failure are possible consequences of atrial fibrillation as well. High blood pressure, heart attack, heart disease as well as lung disease, pneumonia, heavy drinking and the use of stimulants may cause atrial fibrillations. Anything that may place added stress or could potentially damage the heart may cause an atrial fibrillation.

Symptoms of an atrial fibrillation may include dizziness, light headedness, feeling out of breath, feelings of weakness, feeling tired, an uneven heartbeat, chest pain and fainting. Detecting an atrial fibrillation immediately may help to reduce the risk of more serious symptoms. In diagnosing the condition, a doctor may perform an electrocardiogram, commonly referred to as an EKG, an echocardiogram and/or a chest X-ray to detect any irregularities in the heart.

There may be a number of options for treating atrial fibrillations. A doctor may use cardioversion to return the heartbeat to a normal rhythm. Cardioversion may be performed using medications or a low-voltage electrical shock. Rhythm control medications and rate control medications may be prescribed to help maintain a steady heart rate and rhythm. Additionally, blood thinners or aspirin may be recommended to help prevent the risk of stroke.

Keeping the heart healthy may help to lower the risk of atrial fibrillation, as it may often be the result of stress or damage to the heart. Exercising, eating right, avoiding alcohol, caffeine and stimulants, keeping stress levels down and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure levels may help in avoiding atrial fibrillations.

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