Symptom 3: Shortness of Breath – The Elusive Catch
Breath, often taken for granted, becomes noticeably precious when it falls short. Shortness of breath, medically termed dyspnea, is a common symptom of AFIB and can be quite distressing. It’s not just about feeling out of breath; it’s about struggling for breath even during everyday activities.
The underlying process is, once again, tied to the heart’s pumping ability. When AFIB disrupts the heart’s rhythm, the blood flow to the lungs can become compromised. The heart’s struggle translates into your lungs’ struggle to obtain oxygen, leading to a sense of breathlessness.
This breathlessness can strike at any moment, often without any warning. One might be engaging in mundane tasks, such as climbing a short flight of stairs or carrying groceries, only to be ambushed by an unanticipated gasp for air. At times, it could even occur while one is at rest, providing no respite.
The unpredictability and randomness of this symptom make it particularly troubling. However, they also underline the importance of its recognition. A sudden, unexplained struggle for breath could very well be a sign of AFIB lurking beneath the surface.
In essence, shortness of breath with AFIB is an invisible yet tangible signal. It’s an elusive catch, a gasp that signifies the body’s plea for more oxygen. A plea that stems from the heart’s struggle to maintain its rhythm, a struggle that encapsulates the essence of AFIB. (3)
