What is a P wave?

What is a „P” wave? The P wave is a summation wave generated by the depolarization front as it transits the atria. Normally the right atrium depolarizes slightly earlier than left atrium since the depolarization wave originates in the sinoatrial node, in the high right atrium and then travels to and through the left atrium. The depolarization front is carried through the atria along semi-specialized conduction pathways including Bachmann's bundle resulting in uniform shaped waves. Depolarization originating elsewhere in the atria (atrial ectopic) result in P waves with a different morphology from normal. The importance of P wave detection Nowadays the role of P wave detection has increased in ECG Holter technology. The better amplitude resolution and higher processing speeds allow us to perform reliable P wave analysis in 24-hour or longer records. The presence or absence of the P wave from the QRS is important information in detecting AtrioVentricular (AV) blocks to increase the reliability of Atrial Fibrillation detection, but it is also important to know the change in P wave morphology, for example, when determining the cause of Supraventricular Tachycardia. By detecting AV blocks, life-threatening disturbances can be detected and assisted in deciding whether or not the implantation of pacemaker is needed. What is atrial fibrillation (AF)? Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disturbance. AF is an irregular or "racing" heartbeat that can cause blood to collect in the heart and form a clot, which can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke. AF has no visible symptoms. Some people with AF describe fluttering, racing or pounding feelings in their chests, while others feel dizziness, fainting or lightheadedness during an episode. AF can happen at any age, but is more common as you get older. Starting from 2 -3 % at age 45-54 , and increase to 3-7 % at age 55-70 and exceeds the 10 % above 80 years. Therefore, AF is one of most important diseases that needs to be managed because it is a common disease in aged populations. Atrial fibrillation makes your risk of a stroke five times higher. So if you have this condition, it’s important that you get the right treatment – both to control it and to reduce your risk of stroke. What is a stroke and it’s relation with AF ? A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. It can be caused by a blockage in one of the blood vessels leading to the brain or by a bleed in the brain. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to your brain. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged or die. AF raises a person's risk for stroke by 5X (500%) and most AF-related strokes (75%) can be prevented. AF-related strokes cause more deaths than other strokes. In fact, many people with AF (more than 70%) will die as a result of having a stroke.