What does it feel like to be in AFIB?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with an understanding of what it might feel like to experience Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). AFib is the most common type of arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat. The sensations associated with AFib can vary widely from person to person, but there are some common descriptions. When someone is in AFib, they might feel: 1. Palpitations: This is the sensation of feeling their heart beating hard or fast. 2. Shortness of breath: The irregular rhythm can make the heart less efficient at pumping blood, leading to a feeling of breathlessness. 3. Fatigue: The reduced efficiency can also lead to a general feeling of tiredness or weakness. 4. Chest discomfort: Some people describe a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the chest. 5. Lightheadedness or dizziness: This can occur if the heart is not pumping enough blood to the brain. 6. Confusion or memory problems: These symptoms can sometimes be present, especially in older adults. However, it's important to note that many people with AFib are asymptomatic, meaning they do not experience any noticeable symptoms. This is why regular check-ups and heart health screenings are crucial, as AFib can be detected through an electrocardiogram (ECG) even when there are no symptoms.

When you have atrial fibrillation, you might notice a skipped heartbeat, and then feel a thud or thump, followed by your heart racing for an extended amount of time. Or you might feel heart palpitations or fluttering or jumping of your heart. Or you might experience sweating or chest pain, mimicking a heart attack.