Atrial fibrillation (also known as afib, or AF) is an electrical
disorder of the upper chambers of the heart. It increases risk of
heart-related problems and stroke. More than two million Americans have
afib, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
When the heart’s electrical system is out of whack, the heart chambers
lose their rhythm. A common symptom of afib is the sensation that your
heart is flopping around inside your chest, or simply beating
irregularly (palpitations). You may become hyper-aware of your own
heartbeat.
Over time, afib can cause the heart to weaken and malfunction.
The heart’s ineffective contractions cause blood to pool in the atria.
This can increase the risk of clotting. As a result, you may experience
shortness of breath, low blood pressure, and chest pain. During an
episode of afib, your pulse may feel like its racing, beating too
slowly, or beating irregularly.
Heart failure occurs when the heart loses its ability to circulate enough blood throughout the body.
Afib
increases the risk of stroke. When the heart fails to contract
properly, blood tends to pool in the atria. This increases the risk of
forming a clot. When the heart pumps, the clot can travel to the brain,
where it blocks the blood supply and causes an embolic stroke.
Early warning signs of stroke include severe headache and
slurred speech. If you have afib, your risk of stroke increases as you
age. Other additional risk factors for stroke include diabetes, high
blood pressure, or history of other heart problems or previous stroke.
Blood thinners and other medications can lower that risk.
The
lungs require a steady supply of blood in order to function properly.
Irregular pumping action of the heart can also cause fluid to back up in
the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, difficulty performing
physical activities, and fatigue.
The Effects of Afib on the Body
Afib affects the upper chambers of the heart,
called the atria. It’s an electrical disorder that causes rapid
electrical signals in the heart that may reach hundreds of beats per
minute. The rapid-fire signals interfere with the ability of the upper
chambers to contract in an organized way.
This leads to decreased pumping action and passive blood
flow. Blood can even pool within the heart. Some people with afib have
no symptoms, while others experience a wide range of symptoms. Afib
increases the risk of heart-related disorders and stroke.Circulatory System
When the heart’s electrical system is out of whack, the heart chambers
lose their rhythm. A common symptom of afib is the sensation that your
heart is flopping around inside your chest, or simply beating
irregularly (palpitations). You may become hyper-aware of your own
heartbeat.Heart failure occurs when the heart loses its ability to circulate enough blood throughout the body.
Central Nervous System
Afib
increases the risk of stroke. When the heart fails to contract
properly, blood tends to pool in the atria. This increases the risk of
forming a clot. When the heart pumps, the clot can travel to the brain,
where it blocks the blood supply and causes an embolic stroke.Respiratory System
The
lungs require a steady supply of blood in order to function properly.
Irregular pumping action of the heart can also cause fluid to back up in
the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, difficulty performing
physical activities, and fatigue.General Health
Some people with afib may have a build-up of
fluid in the legs, ankles, and feet. Other symptoms include weight gain,
lightheadedness, and a general sense of malaise. Some patients report
irritability and exertion during previously routine activities.
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