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WHAT IS ATRIAL FIBRILLATION (AFib)?
AFib is the most common type of irregular heartbeat that often causes the heart to beat too quickly. One of the biggest concerns with AFib is the risk of stroke. In fact, people with AFib have about 5 times greater risk of stroke than those who do not have AFib. It is projected that by 2030, approximately 12 million people in the U.S. will have AFib.
When it comes
to symptoms
TAKE IT FROM ME: DON’T WAIT
I want people to understand how important it is to contact a doctor when you experience symptoms like I had. I initially didn’t pay attention to my symptoms, which kept coming and going. Experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, and light-headedness, any one of these should have prompted me to talk to my doctor. Instead, I learned about atrial fibrillation in the hospital. If you experience any of these symptoms, which may also include irregular heartbeat, heart racing, or chest pain, you should talk to a doctor. I’ve now learned that having AFib increases the risk of stroke about five times. Don’t learn the hard way. Tell a doctor. When it comes to your health, this is no time to wait.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
How can AFib lead to a stroke?
During a normal heartbeat, the upper chambers (atria) and lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart work together to pump blood to the rest of the body. AFib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly, and do not pump all of the blood to the lower chambers, causing some blood to pool and potentially form clots. If a clot breaks loose, it can travel through the bloodstream to the brain and lead to a stroke. Strokes related to AFib are often more severe compared to strokes with other underlying causes.
The risk of stroke due to AFib can be reduced. Doctors have options that can help reduce the risk of stroke associated with AFib.
People with AFib have about
5 times greater risk of stroke
What are common AFib symptoms to be aware of?
AFib symptoms can come and go, and they can vary. Talk to your doctor if you experience one or more of these symptoms:
Irregular heartbeat
A feeling of your heart racing or skipping beats. This can happen when at rest or when performing physical activities.
Heart racing
A fast beating, fluttering, or racing heart. Similar to an irregular heartbeat, this symptom can happen at any time.
Chest pain
This symptom can appear in many forms, ranging from a sharp stabbing pain to a dull ache.
Shortness of breath
Often described as an intense tightening in the chest, difficulty breathing, breathlessness or a feeling of suffocation.
Fatigue
A persistent tired or sluggish feeling. If you are consistently feeling overtired, it may be considered fatigue.
Light-headedness
Can cause you to feel dizzy or faint. Some people also feel nauseated when feeling
light-headed.
USE THIS GUIDE to HELP keep
track of your symptoms.
Download the Symptom Guide to prepare for your doctor’s visit.
SUGGESTED QUESTIONS
TO ASK A DOCTOR
Could my symptoms be a sign of AFib or another condition?
What is the relationship between my symptoms and my level of physical activity?
Should I track my symptoms? If so, how should I track them?
What should I do if my symptoms come and go?
What are the AFib-related risks I should be aware of?
What options do I have to manage my risks?
What tests are done to determine if I have AFib?
NEXT STEPS FOR PEOPLE EXPERIENCING AFib SYMPTOMS
Schedule an appointment with a doctor to discuss your symptoms
Complete the Symptom Guide to prepare for your appointment
Consider telling a loved one about your symptoms and asking them to accompany you to a doctor's appointment
Symptoms can also be associated with other potentially serious conditions not related to AFib.
Only a healthcare professional can determine whether these symptoms indicate AFib or another condition.
