Symptom 8: Sweating
Symptom eight revolves around a sudden increase in sweating. For those living with intermittent atrial fibrillation, excessive sweating, also known medically as diaphoresis, can become a troubling concern. This isn’t merely the kind of sweating caused by a hot day or a strenuous workout; it’s often a cold, clammy sweat that occurs without any discernible reason.
This symptom occurs due to the body’s natural response to stress. In the case of AFib, the irregular heartbeat places a considerable amount of strain on the body, triggering the sweat glands to produce more sweat in an attempt to cool the body down. This can happen even while resting or sleeping, causing significant discomfort.
Increased sweating can be particularly challenging to deal with as it can lead to dehydration if not managed appropriately. Moreover, it can cause additional stress and anxiety, further exacerbating the symptoms.
While increased sweating might not seem as serious as some other symptoms of AFib, it’s important not to dismiss it. Any new or unexplained symptom warrants a discussion with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious underlying conditions like intermittent atrial fibrillation.
