What is the Difference Between Fibrillation and Fasciculation?

The main difference between fibrillation and fasciculation lies in the nature of the muscle contractions and their visibility:

• Fibrillation:
• Fibrillation is the irregular and rapid beating of the atrial chambers of the heart or the rapid, irregular, and unsynchronized contraction of muscle fibers.
• It is not visible through the skin and shows very small electrical impulses on electromyography (EMG).
• Fibrillation can be associated with cardiac muscles, which facilitate contractions in the heart to pump blood.
• Fasciculation:
• Fasciculation is the flickering contractions of muscle fibers within the motor unit, involving small groups of muscle fibers.
• It is visible through the skin and shows large electrical impulses on electromyography (EMG).
• Fasciculation can be associated with skeletal muscles, which facilitate the movements of bones and other structures.

Both fibrillation and fasciculation are diagnosed under electromyography, and they can be prevented by a nutritious diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and managing stress.

Comparative Table: Fibrillation vs Fasciculation

Here is a table comparing the differences between fibrillation and fasciculation:

Both fibrillation and fasciculation are associated with muscle fibers and can be diagnosed using electromyography. They are also involuntary and can be prevented through a nutritious diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and managing stress.