Abnormal Heart Rhythm |
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Atrial Fibrillation
 Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Signs and Symptoms
Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia, in which the two upper chambers of the heart called the atria, quiver instead of beat effectively. This may result in rapid and irregular impulses in the atrium -- as fast as 300 per minute -- which typically causes a faster than normal and irregular ventricular rhythm.
The "normal" number of heartbeats per minute, called pulse rate varies with age. The heart beats about 140 times a minute in a newborn, compared to 70 times a minute in an older child at rest. Heart rate is not constant, changing in response to many factors, such as activity, fever and fear. In atrial fibrillation -- when the heart beats too quickly and in an irregular fashion -- the heart cannot fill completely with blood, preventing the body from receiving the blood volume it needs to function properly.
Atrial fibrillation may cause the following symptoms:
- Palpitations, which can be skipping, fluttering or pounding in the chest
- Fatigue
- Chest pressure or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting, also known as syncope, or near-syncope
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
It is important to note that some children may not know how to describe what they are feeling during a period of atrial fibrillation. They may have trouble keeping up with other children or realize they are having "spells" and want to sit down and rest. Sometimes, a child does not experience any symptoms at all.
Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007
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