Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a type of arrhythmia, which means that the heart beats in an irregular fashion. This is caused by a distortion of electrical messages that control the steady rhythm of the heart, which we know as the ‘heartbeat’. Symptoms are not always obvious but may include palpitations or a fluttering heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, chest pains, dizziness and fainting spells.

Overall, AF affects around one in every 100 people. However, the risk increases with age, with close to one in ten people aged 75 years or more affected. Treatment is important, even if the AF does not present with any symptoms. Untreated, complications can include stroke and heart attack.

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