It is associated with the presence of prior heart disease, high blood pressure, alcohol intake, and hyperthyroidism. The cause is frequently unknown. Symptoms include heart palpitations, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, light-headedness, and a sense of anxiety. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of developing a stroke, therefore, treatment should be undertaken to convert this abnormal heart rhythm to a normal rhythm. This can be done with medications such as digoxin and inderal.
Medications can also thin the blood in order to prevent clots and a subsequent stroke.
At times it may be necessary to use electrical current to convert the heart to a normal rhythm.