Symptoms

Some people with atrial fibrillation, particularly older people,don't have any symptoms.

The abnormality in heart rhythm is often only discovered during routine tests or investigations for another condition.

Typically, a cardioversion (where the heart is given a controlled electric shock to restore normal rhythm) is carried out. At this point, many people feel much better and realise that they hadn't been feeling normal.

People often attribute tiredness and feeling lethargic toageing, but once normal rhythm is restored, they realise that these symptoms were caused by atrial fibrillation.

Heart palpitations

The most obvious symptom of atrial fibrillation is Palpitations where your heart may feel like it's pounding, fluttering or beating irregularly, often for a few seconds or possibly a few minutes.

As well as an irregular heartbeat, your heart may also beat very fast (often considerably higher than 100 beats per minute).

You can work out your heart rate by checking the pulse in your neck or wrist .

Other symptoms youmay experience if you have atrial fibrillation include:

  • tiredness, and being less able to exercise
  • breathlessness
  • feeling faint or lightheaded
  • chest pain

The way the heart beats in atrial fibrillation reduces the heart's performance and efficiency. This can lead to low blood pressure (hypotension) and heart failure .

You should see your GP immediately if you notice a sudden change in your heartbeat and experience chest pain.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016