Your heart normally beats in a steady, coordinated rhythm. In atrial fibrillation, the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat irregularly and chaotically, instead of squeezing in an organised way.

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Because of that:

• The heartbeat becomes irregular and often fast

• Blood may pool in the atria, which can form clots

• A clot can travel to the brain → stroke

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Some people feel AF right away; others have no symptoms at all.

Possible signs:

• Irregular or racing heartbeat

• Palpitations (fluttering, pounding)

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue or weakness

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

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How can I tell if I might have AF?

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1. Check your pulse

• Place fingers on your wrist or neck

• AF often feels irregularly irregular (no pattern at all)

• Here is a link to a useful video: feeling your pulse 

2. Blood pressure machines

• Some home BP cuffs flag an irregular heartbeat

3. Wearables & apps

• Apple Watch, Fitbit, Samsung, and others can detect rhythm irregularities

• These do not diagnose AF, but they’re good warning systems

4. Medical tests (the gold standard)

• ECG or EKG – confirms AF

• Holter monitor or patch ECG 

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Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in the adult population

If you have AF, your risks for a stroke or similar events increases

In some people, it can also cause other problems like heart failure or worsen valve disease.

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Speak to a cardiologist if you think you have symptoms of AF or you have new onset AF.

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