Ask the doctor: Why does my heart sometimes feel like it stops, then starts up again with a jerk?
In atrial fibrillation, the top parts of the heart (the atria) are beating erratically and very fast — much faster than the usual once-a-second of the normal heartbeat. Fortunately, a tollbooth called the atrioventricular (AV) node sits between the top and bottom chambers (the ventricles) of the heart. The AV node filters out some of the beats from the upper chambers. This allows the bottom chambers to pump blood at a more normal rate. The AV node is one reason why atrial fibrillation is not as serious as a rhythm problem in the ventricles.
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.
