Does Your Heart Skip A Beat? It Could Be Atrial Fibrillation. Know Signs And Symptoms
While occasional irregular heartbeats are common and usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate a more serious condition known as atrial fibrillation (AFib).
Atrial fibrillation, often abbreviated as AFib, is a common heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and often rapid heartbeats. As per the American Heart Association, in AFib, the heart’s upper chambers (atria) quiver instead of contracting effectively, leading to chaotic electrical signals and irregular heartbeat patterns. This irregularity can disrupt blood flow, increasing the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other complications.
Dr. Sanjay Mittal, Vice Chairman, Clinical & Preventive Cardiology, Cardiac Care, Medanta, Gurugram explains that Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the prevailing cardiac arrhythmia in the general population, affecting approximately 1-2% of individuals. It’s estimated that by 2030, AFib will affect over 12 million individuals. Understanding the signs and symptoms of AFib is crucial for early detection and effective management of this potentially dangerous heart rhythm disorder.
Signs and symptoms:
AFib can manifest in various ways, and its symptoms may range from mild to severe. According to Dr. Sanjay Mittal, some individuals may experience intermittent episodes of AFib, while others may have persistent or permanent AFib. Common signs and symptoms of AFib include:[
1.Palpitations: Sensations of rapid, fluttering, or irregular heartbeats.
2.Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or exhaustion, even with minimal exertion.
3.Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling faint or dizzy, particularly when standing up.
4.Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or breathlessness, especially during physical activity.
5.Chest pain or discomfort: Uncomfortable sensations in the chest, often described as pressure, tightness, or squeezing.
6.Weakness or fatigue: Sudden weakness, fatigue, or feelings of impending collapse.
7.Reduced exercise tolerance: Inability to tolerate physical exertion or reduced stamina during exercise.
8.Fainting or near-fainting episodes: Loss of consciousness or near-fainting spells, also known as syncope.
AFib is a common heart rhythm disorder. Know its symptoms (Image:Freepik)
It’s important to note that some individuals with AFib may not experience any noticeable symptoms, making regular medical check-ups and screenings essential for early detection and treatment.
