Atrium

As everyone knows, there are 4 chambers in the heart and the upper two chambers are called the atria. Function: The right atrium receives 'impure' or oxygen-poor blood from various parts of the body whereas the left atrium receives 'pure' or oxygenated blood from the lungs. When the atria contract, the blood flows into the venticles or the lower chambers of the heart. What could go wrong with the atria: a. Atrial flutter: Here, the heart rhythms could be abnormal. b. Atrial fibrillation: Though the heart rhythms are abnormal in this too, they are more chaotic in this case. The main problem with both atrial flutter and fibrillation is that since the heart is not pumping blood efficiently, the blood flow to vital organs reduces. c. Atrial septal defect: There could be a hole between the two atria causing the 'pure' and 'impure' blood to mix. Diagnostic methods for conditions associated with atrium include physical examination, auscultation, blood tests, ultrasonography, ECG, echocardiogram, etc. Remedies: a. Correction of heart rhythm or slowing the heart rate is achieved by medications. b. Anticoagulants or left atrial appendage occlusion may also be used to prevent blood clot formation. c. Cardioversion and ablation. d. Surgical or percutaneous closure may be used for atrial septal defect.