What is the difference between atrial fibrillation and heart rate?

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an arrhythmia characterized by a loss of normal rhythm in the atria and rapid, irregular beats. Because atrial contraction is affected, blood cannot be pumped efficiently from the atria to the ventricles, causing some blood to stagnate in the atria, increasing the risk of atrial thrombosis. Pulse is the pulsation of an artery, usually palpable on the wrist, neck, or abdomen. The frequency of the pulse corresponds to the frequency of the heartbeat, but in patients with atrial fibrillation, the rhythm of the pulse may become irregular because the irregular beating of the atrium causes the contraction of the ventricle to become irregular, thus affecting the rhythm of the pulse. In addition, the pulse may vary due to blood stasis in the atria and irregular contraction of the ventricles. It should be noted that pulse monitoring is only one aspect of evaluating the condition in patients with atrial fibrillation. It should be combined with other tests such as ECG to determine the type, severity and other complications of atrial fibrillation. For AF patients, especially those at risk for thrombosis, anticoagulation is often recommended to prevent thrombosis and embolic events. In addition, patients need to control their heart rate and reduce the frequency and duration of AF episodes to improve symptoms and prevent complications. If the patient has symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, dyspnea, etc., he should seek medical attention in time, conduct ECG examination, etc. to confirm diagnosis and take corresponding treatment measures. At the same time, the patient should also actively cooperate with the doctor's treatment and maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, proper exercise, weight control, etc., in order to improve quality of life and prevent complications. In summary, atrial fibrillation heart rate differs from pulse rate in rhythm and frequency, and irregular pulse may indicate the presence of atrial fibrillation. It is important for patients with atrial fibrillation to seek timely medical attention, receive proper treatment, and adopt a healthy lifestyle.