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One of the symptoms of atrial fibrillation is fatigue. It is certainly normal to feel tired from time to time, however, if you are feeling exhausted or tired all the time, either suddenly or persistently, then this warrants further investigation.
Feelings of tiredness, exhaustion, becoming easily tired or a general lack of energy can be attributed to a wide range of underlying medical conditions that you may not be aware of. Common conditions include anaemia, vitamin D insufficiency, thyroid problems and atrial fibrillation.
Tiredness resulting from atrial fibrillation is caused by a faster than usual and erratic heart beat. This leads to a lack of coordination between different heart chambers, which makes the pumping of blood less efficient. As a result, the supply of oxygen to organs is affected which causes the feeling of exhaustion.
Some drugs prescribed by your doctor can help relieve the fatigue from atrial fibrillation but the most efficient treatment is to restore a normal heart rhythm. Atrial fibrillation can sometimes be brought under control with medication and/or medical procedures known as cardioversion and ablation. Most patients are eligible for this treatment but there are certain circumstances or comorbidities that would make such attempts futile, hence are generally avoided.
To find out more about these procedures, click on the link to the following pages:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can AFib cause fatigue?
Yes, AFib can cause fatigue due to inefficient blood circulation, which reduces oxygen delivery to the body. This can leave you feeling tired or weak, even after minimal exertion.
Why does AFib make you tired?
AFib disrupts the heart’s normal rhythm, causing it to beat irregularly or rapidly. This can strain the heart and reduce its efficiency, leading to feelings of exhaustion.
Does AFib cause extreme tiredness?
Extreme fatigue can occur during AFib episodes, especially if the heart rate is very fast or if the condition persists for an extended period without treatment.
How is AFib-related fatigue treated?
Treatment includes managing the underlying AFib with medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures like cardioversion or ablation.
How can I manage fatigue after an AFib episode?
Rest and following your doctor’s treatment plan are essential. If fatigue persists, consult your healthcare provider to adjust medications or explore other treatments.
Does fatigue after cardiac ablation mean AFib is returning?
Fatigue after ablation is common. Persistent or worsening fatigue should be discussed with your doctor to rule out recurrence of AFib.
