Health effects of atrial fibrillation
Learn how atrial fibrillation can affect your health.
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A fluttering heart beat is the most common symptom of atrial fibrillation.
The physical effects of atrial fibrillation can include:
- chest pain
- fatigue (tiredness)
- shortness of breath
- rapid, strong or irregular heartbeat
Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke, especially in people who:
- are over 65 years old
- have had a stroke before
- have high blood pressure, diabetes or heart failure
- this is when the pumping action of the heart is not strong enough to move blood around
- it can lead to a build-up of fluid in the lungs or surrounding body tissues
- this is when the pumping action of the heart is not strong enough to move blood around
As well, blood clots can form in the heart’s top 2 chambers if blood does not completely empty. A blood clot could break away and travel to the brain, causing a stroke.
If you have atrial fibrillation, you should ask your health care provider about how to manage it.