10 AFib Symptoms

By leslie

Reviewed: dr. stavarache

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. ’Atrial fibrillation.’ Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350624
• 2. ’What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib or AF?) American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af

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Atrial fibrillation, known as AFib, occurs when the heart's upper chambers, called atria, beat irregularly or chaotically for periods of time. There are four types of AFib. Paroxysmal AFib happens occasionally as symptoms appear and disappear and can last for a few minutes or hours. Persistent AFib lasts longer than seven days. This type is likely to require medication or electric shock treatment. Longstanding, persistent AFib lasts longer than 12 months, and permanent AFib doesn't resolve despite treatment.

AFib can cause strokes and heart attacks, as clots may form during episodes and travel to the heart or brain, cutting off blood flow.

1. AFib Symptoms of Fatigue

One of the first and most prominent symptoms of AFib is general fatigue. Because AFib causes problems in the coordination between the atria and the ventricles that supply the body with fresh blood, organs may operate at lower than normal capacity, and the body responds by demanding rest. This is the main cause of general fatigue in people with AFib.

When the heart and lungs are affected, oxygenated blood is limited for a period. The heart can't pump out the needed red blood cells to nourish the body. All organs, including muscles, are affected.¹’Atrial fibrillation.’ Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350624