18. Multiple foci (areas) send out impulses which cause the atria to fibrillate . Picture courtesy of the Heart Rhythm Society. www.hrsonline.org .
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20. Types of Atrial Fibrillation Paroxysmal A Fib. Episodes of A Fib that end spontaneously are called paroxysmal A Fib. The irregular heart rhythm may last for a few seconds, minutes, hours or longer before the heart resumes a normal rhythm on its own. Persistent A Fib. With this condition, the irregular heart rhythm continues indefinitely unless it is treated. Permanent A Fib. In this situation, normal rhythm cannot be restored. **The sooner its treated, the higher the chance that it can be corrected!
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24. Risks associated with A-Fib: Related to decrease in Cardiac Output * Stroke * Heart Failure (30% of C.O. is provided by the Atrial) Related to “Electrical Remodeling” *Damage to heart muscle (alteration in diastolic phase of the atria)