Under normal conditions, the heart beats regularly through contraction and diastole. Certain cells in the heart emit electrical signals that stimulate the heart to contract and pump blood. An electrocardiogram (ECG) recording can show these electrical signals. Your doctor can look at your ECG (electrocardiogram) to see if the electrical signals are normal. When atrial fibrillation (AF or AFib) occurs, the two small upper chambers (atria) do not beat normally in a strong, rhythmic manner. Unlike a regular, normal beat, the atria beat irregularly and very rapidly, like a bowl of gel. The heart’s ability to pump blood properly is important because the body depends on blood for the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. People who develop atrial fibrillation can still live a normal life, but the condition can lead to other heart rhythm problems, chronic fatigue, heart failure, and even stroke. You need to consult your doctor to help manage this condition. How do I know if I have atrial fibrillation? Patients may experience some of the following symptoms: irregular rapid heartbeat palpitations or rapid heartbeat dizziness, excessive sweating, chest pain or pressure shortness of breath or anxiety fatigue more easily with exercise coma (fainting) How is atrial fibrillation corrected? Atrial fibrillation can sometimes be corrected with electric shocks. Electric shocks can restore the heartbeat to normal. Patients can take medications (such as beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic drugs) to help normalize the heart rhythm. Digitalis, calcium channel blockers, or amiodarone may be taken to help slow the heart rate. You may need surgery, a pacemaker, or other methods. A patient’s specific treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of atrial fibrillation and the condition. How can I reduce my risk of stroke? People with atrial fibrillation are five times more likely to have a stroke than the general population. This is because atrial fibrillation causes blood to accumulate in the atria and form blood clots. To reduce the risk of stroke, your doctor may prescribe medications to stop blood clots from forming. Examples include warfarin, an anticoagulant class, and aspirin, an antiplatelet drug class. A drug called dabigatran has recently been approved by the FDA, and doctors may prescribe this drug as well. Always inform your doctor, dentist, and pharmacist when taking aspirin, warfarin, or dabigatran. Tell your doctor right away if you have unusual bleeding, bruising, or other problems.