Why does atrial fibrlillation not cause immediate death but ventrucular fibrillation does?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a rapid and irregular heart rhythm that originates in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria). While it can cause a number of symptoms, such as palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath, AFib is not typically immediately life-threatening. This is because the atria are not responsible for pumping blood out of the heart, so the heart can still function even if the atria are fibrillating.

Ventricular fibrillation (V Fib), on the other hand, is a rapid and irregular heart rhythm that originates in the lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles). V Fib is immediately life-threatening because it causes the ventricles to quiver instead of contracting, which prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively. This can lead to a sudden cardiac arrest and death.

The main reason why AFib is not as immediately dangerous as V Fib is because the atria are not responsible for pumping blood out of the heart. The ventricles are the main pumping chambers of the heart, so when they fibrillate, the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. This can lead to a sudden cardiac arrest and death.

However, AFib can still be a serious condition if it is not treated properly. AFib can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications. It is important to see a doctor if you experience any symptoms of AFib so that it can be diagnosed and treated properly.