Which type of arrhythmia is characterized by irregular electrical activity of the heart?

Atrial fibrillation is characterized by irregular electrical activity of the heart. In this condition, the normal rhythmic contractions of the atria are replaced by chaotic electrical impulses, leading to a rapid and irregular heartbeat. This irregularity causes the atria to quiver instead of contracting effectively, which can result in inadequate blood flow and increases the risk of clot formation, potentially leading to stroke.

In atrial fibrillation, patients often experience symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue, although some may be asymptomatic. The diagnosis is typically made through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which will show the characteristic irregular R-R intervals due to the variable conduction of impulses from the atria to the ventricles.

Understanding atrial fibrillation is crucial as it requires management strategies that may include anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolic events, rhythm control to restore normal rhythm, or rate control for symptom management. Thus, identifying this arrhythmia is important in clinical practice and for overall cardiovascular health.