Atrial fibrillation (AF) is defined as an irregular and often rapid heart rate which commonly causes poor blood flow to the rest of the body. During an episode of AF, the heart's two upper chambers (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly and are out of coordination with the two lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles).
AF is a condition which should be taken seriously due to it's main potential risks: atrial thrombosis (the formation of a blood clot inside the atrium chamber, as a result of the whirlpooled blood flow in the respective chambers due to the chaotic contraction of the atrial heart muscle during AF) leading frequently to stroke, heart failure (inability of the heart muscle to contract properly) and sudden death.
How do I know I suffer from Atrial Fibrillation (AF)?
AF is sometimes asymptomatic (clinically "silent") and in this case it usually goes unnoticed. If symptomatic (noticeable), here are some of the main symptoms which could indicate the presence of AF:
AF is a condition which should be taken seriously due to it's main potential risks: atrial thrombosis (the formation of a blood clot inside the atrium chamber, as a result of the whirlpooled blood flow in the respective chambers due to the chaotic contraction of the atrial heart muscle during AF) leading frequently to stroke, heart failure (inability of the heart muscle to contract properly) and sudden death.
How do I know I suffer from Atrial Fibrillation (AF)?
AF is sometimes asymptomatic (clinically "silent") and in this case it usually goes unnoticed. If symptomatic (noticeable), here are some of the main symptoms which could indicate the presence of AF:
- Irregular pulse
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Feeling fatigued or lacking energy
- Dizziness or confusion
- Light-headedness or fainting
- Feelings of fear or anxiousness
- Chest discomfort or chest pain
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