There are no symptoms of atrial fibrillation, so the first symptom you may experience could be stroke symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a health history and physical exam to confirm the diagnosis. Your primary care physician may refer you to a cardiologist if you don’t have an underlying heart condition. In the meantime, you can learn more about the disease and treatment options here. Getting a diagnosis is important to avoid serious complications, including stroke.
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Other causes of atrial fibrillation include chronic diseases and lifestyle factors. Drinking alcohol, especially binge-drinking, can trigger an episode of atrial fibrillation. People who are obese or are overweight may be more likely to develop the condition. Also, genetic factors are not yet fully understood. Some other factors, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, and sleep monotherapy, may increase your risk of developing the condition.
People with atrial fibrillation should visit their doctor as soon as they experience symptoms. The condition occurs when the conduction system of the heart malfunctions and produces abnormal electrical signals. This condition is associated with an increased risk of stroke and is more common in older adults. Symptoms of atrial fibrillation include dizziness, shortness of breath, or tiredness. People with atrial fibrillation may also have a heart valve problem. In either case, it’s important to seek medical advice for your condition.
Symptoms of atrial fibrillation may range from slow heartbeats to an irregular rhythm. The problem stems from the abnormality of the electrical signals sent from the atrioventricular node, which connects the upper chambers with the lower chambers. This causes the atria to contract and quiver irregularly, which decreases the amount of blood ejected from the heart with every heartbeat.
