Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a common type of arrhythmia - an abnormal heart rhythm. It can cause symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, and even stroke. Knowing the red flags for AFib can help you recognize the condition early and get the treatment you need to manage the condition and reduce your risk of serious complications.
The most common red flag for atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat or palpitations. This can feel like the heart is pounding, fluttering, or skipping beats. It can be associated with other symptoms such as chest pain, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
Other red flags for atrial fibrillation include fatigue, dizziness, and confusion. If you are feeling unusually tired or weak, or if you’re having difficulty concentrating or remembering things, it could be a sign of AFib. Additionally, if you experience lightheadedness or dizziness, especially when you stand up, it could be a sign of AFib.
Finally, if you’ve recently had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), you may have an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. If you’ve had any of these conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your risk of AFib.
By knowing the red flags for atrial fibrillation, you can help ensure that you get the treatment you need as soon as possible. If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor can confirm a diagnosis of AFib and help you create a treatment plan to manage the condition and reduce your risk of serious complications.