Atrial arrhythmia, also called supraventricular arrhythmia, begins in the upper chambers of the heart and includes:
- Atrial Fibrillation (sometimes called "afib"): A disorganized rhythm in the atria and the most common arrhythmia, affecting more than 4 million Americans. With atrial fibrillation, the heart's upper chambers beat irregularly, affecting blood flow to the heart muscle and to the rest of the body. This can cause blood clots which may lead to a stroke. Read more about atrial Fibrillation (link).
- Atrial flutter: Similar to atrial fibrillation but has a more regular pattern.
- Sick sinus syndrome: The heart’s pacemaker doesn’t fire properly, slowing the heart rate down.
- Sinus tachycardia: The heart rate speeds up due to fast electrical signals from the sinus node.
- Sinus bradycardia: The electrical signals in the sinus node are either blocked or slow down.
Abnormal electrical impulses in the upper chambers of the heart cause atrial arrhythmia. People with atrial arrhythmias often feel tired and sluggish, and may experience a flutter in their chest or throat.
Patient Resources
Heart Rhythm Disorders Information Guide
Make an Appointment
Visit our Make an Appointment page for more information.