As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of how Atrial Fibrillation (AFIB) can affect an individual's well-being.
Atrial Fibrillation, often referred to as AFIB, is the most common type of arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat. It can cause a variety of symptoms and feelings, which may include:
1.
Palpitations: Patients often describe a sensation of their heart fluttering, racing, or pounding in their chest.
2.
Fatigue: AFIB can lead to a feeling of tiredness or exhaustion due to the reduced efficiency of the heart's pumping action.
3.
Shortness of breath: Because the heart is not pumping effectively, it can result in decreased oxygen supply to the body, leading to breathlessness, especially during physical activity.
4.
Chest pain or discomfort: Some individuals may experience chest pain or a feeling of pressure in the chest.
5.
Dizziness or lightheadedness: This can occur due to the irregular rhythm and reduced cardiac output.
6.
Confusion or memory problems: These cognitive issues can arise if the brain is not receiving a consistent supply of oxygen-rich blood.
It's important to note that not everyone with AFIB experiences these symptoms, and some may even have no symptoms at all, a condition known as silent AFIB. However, even without symptoms, AFIB can still lead to serious complications, such as stroke or heart failure, if left untreated.
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