Recognizing the Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, affecting millions of people worldwide. While some individuals with AFib may not experience any symptoms, others may notice a significant impact on their daily lives. It’s important to recognize these symptoms early to manage the condition and prevent serious complications, such as stroke or heart failure.

What is atrial fibrillation?

AFib occurs when the heart’s upper chambers (atria) beat irregularly and out of sync with the lower chambers (ventricles), which disrupts the normal flow of blood. This can lead to blood clots that increase the risk of stroke and other heart-related problems.

Symptoms of atrial fibrillation

Although some individuals may be asymptomatic, common symptoms of AFib include:

• Heart palpitations — One of the most noticeable symptoms, heart palpitations feel like a fluttering, racing, or pounding sensation in the chest. Palpations can come on suddenly and may last for a few seconds to minutes.
• Fatigue and low energy levels — AFib can make it difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently, which leads to constant fatigue. This lack of energy can severely impact quality of life, as it makes even simple activities like walking or climbing stairs exhausting.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness — Reduced blood flow to the brain may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, which can sometimes lead to fainting spells. This poses a significant risk during everyday activities like driving or operating machinery.
• Shortness of breath — Feeling out of breath, even during minimal exertion, is another common symptom. This can occur during exercise or even while resting and make it hard to carry out normal activities.
• Chest pain or discomfort — Although less common, some people with AFib may experience chest pain or discomfort. Since chest pain can also be a sign of a heart attack, seek immediate medical attention if this symptom arises.

AFib symptoms versus other heart conditions

One of the challenges of diagnosing AFib is that many of its symptoms overlap with other heart conditions, such as heart failure or coronary artery disease. Symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest discomfort also occur in other cardiovascular diseases. For this reason, proper medical evaluation, including an ECG or Holter monitor, is essential to differentiate AFib from other conditions.

Impact on daily life

Living with AFib can significantly affect your everyday activities. Constant fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness may make it difficult to perform basic tasks, exercise, or maintain a social life. Some people may also experience anxiety or fear related to their symptoms, which add emotional strain to an already challenging condition.

When to seek help

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of AFib can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of more severe complications, such as stroke.

At Oklahoma Heart Hospital (OHH), we specialize in diagnosing and treating atrial fibrillation and other heart conditions. Our team of expert cardiologists uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure comprehensive care and the best outcomes for our patients. If you are experiencing symptoms of AFib or have concerns about your heart health, contact OHH for expert care tailored to your needs.

For more information on AFib, its causes, and treatment options, check out our Complete Guide to Atrial Fibrillation.