Atrial fibrillation: What are the warning signs?
Written by:
Cardiologist
Published: 14/08/2023
Edited by: Carlota Pano
Atrial fibrillation, caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the heart, is the most common type of heart rhythm disorder. Here to provide an expert insight into atrial fibrillation, including symptoms and risk factors, is Dr Marco Spartera, renowned consultant cardiologist.
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormality of the heart’s electrical system, affecting 1.4 million people in the UK alone. It causes an irregular heartbeat, which is linked to a wide array of symptoms and usually a too-fast heart rate.
What are the early warning signs of atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation can cause a wide array of symptoms, including:
dizziness shortness of breath tiredness fluttering behind the chest heart palpitations heart pounding
Sometimes, atrial fibrillation can be completely asymptomatic, and the first manifestation of the disease is the onset of an embolic ischaemic stroke.
Standard non-invasive tests are available to detect atrial fibrillation where relevant.
What are the main causes of atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is linked to many cardiovascular risk factors, including:
Unhealthy ageing Valve disease Long-term conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity
I always tell my patients that atrial fibrillation can be seen like an ‘alarm sign' telling us that there may be cardiovascular conditions simmering underneath.
It is paramount for a cardiologist to detect and treat all the known underlying risk factors of atrial fibrillation for a successful approach.
What risks are associated with atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is associated with low quality of life and heart failure, and it is also the most common cause of cardiac embolism and embolic stroke.
When is it necessary to see a doctor about atrial fibrillation?
It is always important to see a doctor when atrial fibrillation is suspected.
Dr Marco Spartera is a highly skilled consultant cardiologist with specialism in a wide array of cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation, palpitations and valve disease.
If you suspect atrial fibrillation, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with Dr Spartera via his Top Doctors profile today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment.