Heart Health
New techniques for treating atrial fibrillation
New devices and treatments can help prevent irregular atrial heart rhythms and related risks.
When your heart is pumping well, the four chambers contract and relax in a rhythmic, coordinated manner. However, a malfunction in the heart's internal electrical system can disrupt the normal beating sequence. As a result, the two upper chambers, the atria, can go into a fast, irregular quiver known as atrial fibrillation, or "afib."
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.