Types of Atrial Fibrillation

Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

In paroxysmal (par-ok-SIZ-mal) atrial fibrillation (AF), the abnormal electrical signals and rapid heart rate begin suddenly and then stop on their own. Symptoms can be mild or severe and last for seconds, minutes, hours, or days.

Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

Persistent AF is a condition in which the abnormal heart rhythm continues until it’s stopped with treatment.

Permanent Atrial Fibrillation

Permanent AF is a condition in which the normal heart rhythm can’t be restored with the usual treatments. Both paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation may become more frequent and eventually result in permanent AF.