Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, is an irregular heart rhythm that starts in the upper chambers of the heart. The heartbeat may feel fast, fluttery, uneven, or skipped.
Why AFib matters
AFib can allow blood to pool and form clots in the heart. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.
Common symptoms
Some people feel palpitations, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fatigue, dizziness, or weakness. Others have no symptoms and find it during an exam or device reading.
AFib risk can rise with age, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease, sleep apnea, alcohol use, and some lung conditions.