Symptoms and Complications
The symptoms of AF include:
- palpitations
- chest discomfort
- rapid and irregular heartbeat
- lightheadedness or, in rare cases, fainting
- dizziness
- shortness of breath
- weakness
Some do not experience any symptoms. In this case, their doctor may recognize the condition during a regular medical examination.
Everyone knows what it feels like to experience an occasional flutter of the heart, and usually it does not mean anything. See your doctor if you experience chest pains, feel faint, or notice your pulse to be faster than usual or irregular over a prolonged period.
AF is a progressive condition that can weaken the heart and its ability to pump blood, especially if it is not treated properly. Another possible complication of AF is the formation of blood clots that can cause a stroke. The risk of stroke depends on your age and other risk factors, but the presence of AF increases your risk of having a stroke by at least five times.