Symptom 3: Shortness of Breath
Next up is the symptom of shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea. This symptom often appears during an episode of atrial fibrillation, and it may feel like you’re gasping for air or struggling to catch your breath.
This is because, with the heart not effectively pumping blood to the lungs and the rest of the body, there’s a decreased oxygen supply to meet the body’s demands. Your lungs may try to compensate for this shortage by increasing the breathing rate, leading to shortness of breath.
For some people, this might only occur during physical exertion, while others may experience it even at rest. It is important to note that shortness of breath is a significant symptom that requires immediate medical attention. It might signify not just AFib but also other serious conditions such as heart failure or lung diseases. (3)
