What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
Apr 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Man
Introduction
The main symptoms include fatigue, palpitations, and a sensation of a racing heartbeat. Blood pressure may initially rise; however, if sinus rhythm is not promptly restored, it will decline with prolonged duration. In cases of long-standing rapid atrial fibrillation lasting more than one month, some patients may develop symptoms of heart failure. Atrial fibrillation follows a progressive course—from paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the early stage, to persistent atrial fibrillation, and ultimately to permanent atrial fibrillation.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one type of heart disease. Accurate understanding of this condition is essential to achieve effective treatment and optimal disease control, thereby preventing its progression. What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
What Are the Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation?
The primary symptoms include fatigue, palpitations, and a sensation of heart racing or fluttering. Blood pressure may be elevated early in the course of the disease. However, if sinus rhythm is not promptly restored during prolonged episodes, blood pressure may subsequently decline. In cases of long-standing rapid AF lasting over one month, some patients may develop signs and symptoms of heart failure. AF follows a progressive clinical course—from paroxysmal AF, to persistent AF, and ultimately to permanent AF. Once permanent AF develops, ventricular rate typically decreases—from over 100 beats per minute (bpm) down to approximately 70–80 bpm—and patients often exhibit pronounced long pauses without medication.
In cases of slow-onset atrial fibrillation, even longer pauses may occur. A “long pause” refers to the interval between two consecutive heartbeats. When this interval exceeds 5 seconds, patients may experience symptoms of cerebral hypoperfusion, such as marked periorbital darkening (dark circles), fatigue, and impaired memory.
In managing rapid AF, clinicians first determine the duration since onset of the current episode. If AF has been present for less than 24 hours, pharmacologic rate control or rhythm conversion strategies may be initiated. Drugs such as amiodarone or propafenone may be used for rhythm conversion, while metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets are commonly employed for ventricular rate control. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
