What Does An Episode of AFib Feel Like?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heartbeat that can cause a wide range of symptoms. Some people with AFib may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may have symptoms that come and go. Some common symptoms of AFib include:

• Heart palpitations: This is when you feel like your heart is racing, pounding, or fluttering.
• Chest discomfort: This can include chest pain, pressure, or tightness.
• Shortness of breath: This may be accompanied by feelings of fatigue or tiredness.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness: These symptoms may be caused by the heart’s inability to pump enough blood to the body.

In severe cases, AFib can lead to more serious complications such as stroke or heart failure. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or are concerned about your heart health, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Happens During An Episode of Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heartbeat that occurs when the atria, the upper chambers of the heart, beat in a disorganized and rapid way. This can cause the heart to pump less efficiently and can lead to a range of symptoms. During an episode of AFib, the atria beat very rapidly, often at rates of over 100 beats per minute. This rapid and irregular contraction can cause the atria to quiver or “fibrillate,” which is where the term “atrial fibrillation” comes from.

Can AFib Impact People At Any Age?

AFib can occur at any age and is more common in people who possess certain risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. It can also be triggered by certain medication, alcohol, caffeine, or other factors such as stress or extreme physical activity. If you have AFib, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider about the best treatment options for your specific situation. Treatment may include medication to regulate the heartbeat, lifestyle changes to reduce triggers, or procedures such as ablation to correct the underlying cause of AFib.

What Are the Other Factors That Impact AFib Episodes?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Ref. Link) AFib affects between 2.7 and 6.1 million Americans. The research also suggests that these numbers are likely to go up significantly in the coming years. According to studies, paroxysmal AFib affects about 40% of patients who have AFib (Ref. Link). However, because it can be challenging to diagnose and categorize different kinds of AFib, estimates vary greatly. A significant risk factor for AFib is age. Older persons are more likely to get AFib. Paroxysmal AFib, however, is the most prevalent type of AFib found in younger patients.

What To Do During An Active AFib Episode?

If you are experiencing an active episode of atrial fibrillation (AFib), it is important to take the following steps:

1. Stay calm: It can be easy to get anxious or panicked during an AFib episode, but try to stay as calm as possible.
2. Check your pulse: If you are able to, try to check your pulse to see if it is irregular or rapid. If you are unable to check your pulse, or if you are unsure if your pulse is irregular, call for emergency medical assistance.
3. Take any prescribed medications: If you have been prescribed medications to manage your AFib, take them as directed.
4. Seek medical attention: If you are experiencing severe symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or dizziness, or if this is your first AFib episode, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Keep these symptoms in mind and be prepared to articulate them: 

What signs did you experience? 

Before the symptoms started, were there any “warning signs”?

Did the number of symptoms felt increase with time, or did they start all at once? 

Did the symptoms come and go, or were they constant? 

The medical staff will be able to diagnose the issue and choose the best course of treatment with whatever information you can provide them.

Disclose everything honestly; some patients are reluctant to disclose to their medical staff if they experience symptoms while working out, using alcohol or drugs, or engaging in sexual activity. You must describe the circumstances surrounding the onset of your AFib symptoms and AFib episode. Being open with your doctor is one of your most powerful weapons for managing atrial fibrillation.

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Frequently Asked Questions :

Why is atrial fibrillation an issue and what is it?

AFib, also known as atrial fibrillation, is an irregular heartbeat in which the atria don’t contract forcefully or rhythmically. The heart may not pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body while it is in AFib. 

What are the biggest dangers associated with AFib? 

Stroke is the main cause of AFib risk. If you have atrial fibrillation, your chance of having a stroke is up to five times higher than it is for someone without it. Due to the eventual weakening of the heart muscle, you also run the danger of developing heart failure. 

Is AFib treatable or a lifelong condition? 

Although we don’t frequently claim that AFib is curable, certain factors, such sleep apnea, can be addressed to minimize the severity of your AFib. Stroke risk can also be decreased with the use of drugs and treatments that regulate heart rate and rhythm. No matter how long it lasts, AFib needs to be monitored by a physician. 

Can an AFib episode cause my death? 

Typically, no. AFib often doesn’t cause death on its own, although an AFib-related stroke can. AFib patients are more likely to get a stroke and other heart-related problems including heart failure. Working with your doctor or other medical experts to ensure you’re doing everything possible to avoid issues that might arise as a consequence of AFib is the most crucial thing you can do. 

Can someone with AFib have a long life? 

Even those with AFib can lead full, busy lifestyles. Your ability to control your AFib for the long term will be improved by reducing your risk factors for heart disease and stroke and being aware of potential triggers. Your physician can offer lifelong management advice.

Other Heart Health Topics To Explore:

Heart Rate Zones | Low Resting Heart Rate | Signs of Heart Attack | Atrial Fibrillation Treatment | Cardiovascular Disease | Heart Rate During Exercise | Best ECG Monitor.| Healthy Heart Exercise | Arrhythmia Symptoms

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