Atrial fibrillation(AF)
Also known as: Vorhofflimmern · AFib · Lone Atrial Fibrillation · Vorhofarrhythmie · Atriales Flimmern
Overview
What it is
Atrial fibrillation is a serious heart rhythm disorder where the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat rapidly and chaotically instead of in a coordinated pattern. This irregular beating significantly reduces the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently to the rest of the body. It is typically triggered by underlying structural heart diseases, which veterinarians evaluate using an ultrasound of the heart, known as an echocardiogram.
How it presents
Owners may notice their dog becoming easily tired, weak, or having difficulty breathing, sometimes accompanied by coughing. These symptoms most commonly appear in middle-aged to older dogs, particularly in larger breeds.
Treatment
The condition is not curable but can be managed with lifelong medication to control the heart rate, alongside regular monitoring. Lifetime management and diagnostic costs typically range from 1,500 to 6,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie)(Herz-Echo)
Primary testCardiac examEchokardiographie zur Beurteilung von Herzklappen, -wänden, -funktion. Pflicht z.B. bei Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (MMVD).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a serious heart rhythm disorder where the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat rapidly and chaotically instead of in a coordinated pattern. This irregular beating significantly reduces the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently to the rest of the body. It is typically triggered by underlying structural heart diseases, which veterinarians evaluate using an ultrasound of the heart, known as an echocardiogram.
How is Atrial fibrillation tested?
Tests currently in our database: Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.