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Atrial Fibrillation
An irregular, often fast heartbeat that can raise stroke risk. Tracking your symptoms and connecting with others who understand can help you manage day to day.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
When to seek help
Seek emergency care for chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke such as sudden weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. The heart's upper chambers (atria) beat out of sync with the lower chambers.
Symptoms
- Palpitations (a fluttering or racing heartbeat)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest discomfort
Causes
Often linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, valve problems, or an overactive thyroid. It becomes more common with age. Some people have no clear cause.
Types
- Paroxysmal (comes and goes on its own)
- Persistent (lasts more than a week)
- Long-standing persistent
- Permanent
Diagnosis
Diagnosed with an electrocardiogram (ECG). Because AFib can come and go, you may wear a portable heart monitor for days or weeks.
Treatment
Treatment aims to control the heart rate or rhythm, and to prevent blood clots (usually with anticoagulant medicines). Some people have a procedure such as cardioversion or catheter ablation.
Living with it
- Take blood-thinning medicine exactly as prescribed
- Control blood pressure and diabetes
- Limit alcohol and caffeine
- Keep a healthy weight
- Know the stroke warning signs (FAST)
Complications
- Stroke (blood clots from the heart)
- Heart failure
- Worsening fatigue and exercise intolerance
Frequently asked questions
Does AFib always need blood thinners?
Not everyone. Your doctor estimates your stroke risk (for example, with a CHA₂DS₂-VASc score) to decide whether an anticoagulant is right for you.
Join the Atrial Fibrillation community
Talk with people who understand, share what helps, and find support from others living with atrial fibrillation. Private, moderated, and free.
Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.