Q. What does atrial fibrillation feel like?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heart rhythm that can manifest itself in a variety of ways. It is usually characterized by an abnormally rapid and/or chaotic heartbeat, although the intensity and frequency can vary from person to person. Many people who experience AFib for the first time describe feeling palpitations, or fluttering sensations in their chest. Others may feel like their heart is beating rapidly or skipping beats entirely. Some might also have shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, or chest pain associated with their episodes of AFib.
The most important thing to remember if you are experiencing any of these symptoms is to seek medical attention as soon as possible; when left untreated, AFib can increase your risk for stroke and other serious complications such as blood clots and congestive heart failure. To diagnose AFib properly your doctor will likely conduct one or more tests including Electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram (EKG), exercise stress test (treadmill), holter monitor readings over 24 hours period, tilt table testing which puts the patient in different positions while monitoring their ECG tracings etc. Your doctor may also choose to do additional tests depending on your individual circumstances. Treatment for AFib varies depending on the individual patient's needs but typically involves lifestyle modifications such as reducing alcohol intake and losing weight if needed; medications such as anticoagulants or antiarrhythmics; cardiac ablation which uses extreme temperatures stimulated via ultrasound waves to isolate faulty electrical pathways; living well with Atrial Fibrillation Therapy - combinations of physical activity designed specifically for AF patients resulting in improved quality-of-life outcomes; or surgical interventions such pacemaker implants into the chest wall that stimulate & regulate the natural electrical current flowing through your heart chambers to maintain normal rhythm & flow rate..
Living with Atrial Fibrillation can be challenging and it definitely takes some getting used to however following proper diagnosis & treatment plans tailored towards each patient’s unique health condition would land you a much better outcome allowing you lead a healthier life!