Is atrial fibrillation a symptom of heart failure?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with an informed answer to your question regarding atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is not a symptom of heart failure, but it can be a risk factor for developing heart failure. AFib is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat chaotically and out of coordination with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This can lead to a decrease in the heart's efficiency in pumping blood, which can, over time, contribute to the development of heart failure if not properly managed.

Heart failure, on the other hand, is a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It can be caused by various factors, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and heart valve problems, among others. Symptoms of heart failure typically include shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.

While AFib is not a direct symptom of heart failure, the two conditions can be related. AFib can increase the risk of heart failure by reducing the heart's ability to pump effectively. Additionally, heart failure can also increase the likelihood of developing AFib due to the changes in the structure and function of the heart.

In summary, atrial fibrillation is not a symptom of heart failure, but it can be a comorbid condition that increases the risk of developing heart failure.

Congestive Heart Failure. Congestive heart failure results when your heart is overworked. The erratic electrical impulses that cause atrial fibrillation make the heart work too hard, and it becomes enlarged, ineffective, weak, and unable to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body and to the organs.