Does your heart beat fast and irregularly for a few minutes, then go back to normal as if nothing had happened? Many people leave it without concern because it "comes and goes", but that is exactly what makes a condition such as atrial fibrillation dangerous if it is ignored over the long term.
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a disturbance in the electrical rhythm of the heart that makes the two upper chambers (the atria) quiver irregularly instead of pumping blood steadily. The result is that blood may not move efficiently inside the heart, and this increases the chance of clots forming that can travel to the brain and cause a stroke — a main reason why this condition needs assessment and attention even when there are no clear symptoms.
Symptoms
- Palpitations, or a feeling that the heart is fluttering or beating fast and irregularly
- Mild dizziness
- Sudden tiredness or exhaustion without any clear exertion
- Mild shortness of breath, especially with exertion
- In some cases a person may have no symptoms at all, and the condition is discovered by chance during a routine check-up
Warning signs that require emergency help immediately
If you feel sudden weakness in part of your body, slurred speech, or a severe and sudden headache, this may be a sign of a stroke — call an ambulance immediately and do not wait.
Causes and risk factors
There are many factors that can increase the chance of developing atrial fibrillation, or trigger an episode in someone who is already susceptible:
- Increasing age and chronic heart disease
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Neglected tonsil and throat infections from childhood can in some cases cause problems in the heart valves, and later lead to rhythm disturbances such as atrial fibrillation
- Dehydration, which is an important factor especially in summer and during heatwaves, because low fluids and salts in the body increase the chance of episodes in susceptible people
- Work stress, lack of sleep, and a sedentary office life are further factors that raise the risk
When to see a doctor
If you have repeated or unexplained palpitations, even if they come and go without a clear cause, do not say "this is temporary and it will pass". Seeing a cardiologist early allows a simple ECG that can detect the condition before it leads to more serious complications such as a stroke.
Treatment options
The treatment plan differs according to each person's condition and is set by the cardiologist after a full assessment. It may include prescription medicines to control the heart rhythm or to reduce the risk of clots forming, in addition to lifestyle changes such as weight management, regular physical activity and adequate hydration, especially in hot weather. In some cases the doctor may suggest additional medical procedures depending on the severity of the condition and its response to initial treatment. The final decision is always made after a personal examination and assessment, and there is no single treatment plan that suits everyone.
How Town Hospital helps you
At Town Hospital, the cardiology department offers you a rapid assessment with an ECG and a clear follow-up plan that fits your daily life, whether you have repeated palpitations or simply want the reassurance of a routine check. Early detection makes a great deal of difference in managing the condition before it progresses.
Frequently asked questions
Is atrial fibrillation the same thing as an ordinary increase in heart rate?
No. A faster pulse caused by exertion or stress is temporary and normal, whereas atrial fibrillation is a disturbance in the electrical rhythm itself that makes the heartbeat irregular, and it may need assessment and treatment from a cardiologist.
Can I have atrial fibrillation without symptoms?
Yes. In many cases a person may not feel any clear symptoms, and this is a further reason why regular check-ups matter, especially if there are risk factors such as high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease.
Can a heatwave affect my condition?
Yes. Dehydration and low fluids in the body during severe heat can increase the chance of episodes in people susceptible to atrial fibrillation, so it is important to be careful to drink water regularly in summer.
Is an ECG enough to diagnose the condition?
An ECG is an important first step and detects many cases, but some cases come and go, and the doctor may need an additional means of monitoring over a longer period in order to confirm the diagnosis accurately.
Does atrial fibrillation always cause a stroke?
No. Not all cases of atrial fibrillation lead to a stroke, but it is one of the most important causes that clearly increase the risk, and this is an important reason for early diagnosis and follow-up with a cardiologist.
In an emergency (sudden weakness, slurred speech, or a severe sudden headache), call an ambulance immediately.
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