Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation Flashcards
Why do you get palpitations?
In AF, the atria contract irregularly and very quickly (sometimes over 300 times per minute), and this chaotic electrical activity passes to the ventricles, causing an irregular and often rapid heart rate. Patients feel this as a fluttering or racing sensation in the chest, known as palpitations.
Why do you get fatigue?
The heart’s pumping efficiency is compromised in AF because the atria are not contracting properly, reducing cardiac output (the amount of blood the heart pumps). With less blood and oxygen being delivered to the body’s tissues, patients often feel tired and weak, especially during physical activity.
Why do you get SOB?
The irregular and inefficient pumping of the heart leads to reduced oxygen delivery to the lungs and other organs. If AF causes the heart to pump too fast or ineffectively, it can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary congestion), making it difficult to breathe. This symptom is often more pronounced during exercise or exertion.
Why do you get chest pain?
Heart may beat too fast or too slow, causing fluctuations in blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the brain. This can lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.
Why do you get dizziness or light headedness?
Heart may beat too fast or too slow, causing fluctuations in blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the brain. This can lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.
Why do you get exercise intolerance?
Because AF reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, the body cannot meet the increased oxygen demands during physical activity. Patients often feel easily fatigued and may become short of breath with minimal exertion, leading to exercise intolerance.
Why do you get irregular pulse?
AF causes the atria to quiver rather than contract in a coordinated manner. The electrical signals pass to the ventricles in an irregular fashion, resulting in an irregular and often rapid pulse. This can be detected on physical examination or by patients themselves.
Why do you get anxiety or restlessness?
The sensation of a rapid or irregular heartbeat, along with the other symptoms (palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath), can cause significant anxiety. The awareness of the abnormal heart rhythm may make patients feel uneasy or restless.
Why do you get syncope?
Heart rate becomes extremely fast or erratically slow, there may be inadequate blood flow to the brain, resulting in fainting or near-syncope. This occurs due to a sudden drop in blood pressure or cardiac output.
