Famous people who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib) include former US President George H. W. Bush, former US Vice President Dick Cheney, actor Dennis Quaid, singer Sheryl Crow, author Dean Koontz, and former NFL quarterback Brett Favre. Other prominent figures who have experienced AFib include media mogul Rupert Murdoch, actor James Woods, and former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal.
AFib is a common type of irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia — an electrical disorder of the heart — that can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and fatigue. It can also lead to stroke, heart failure, and other serious health complications. The exact cause of AFib is unknown, though it is often linked to other conditions such as high blood pressure, heart defects, and diabetes.
Given its prevalence and the fact that it can have serious consequences, it’s important for both the general public and people in positions of power to be aware of the signs and symptoms of AFib in order to seek treatment as soon as possible. By doing so, we can help reduce the risk of complications, such as stroke, and improve the quality of life of those affected.