What should I do now?
Call 911
Call 911 for chest pressure, severe trouble breathing, fainting during a racing heartbeat, or stroke signs such as face drooping, arm weakness, or trouble speaking. Do not drive yourself.
Contact your care team
Contact your care team for new or longer episodes, worsening fatigue, reduced activity, medication side effects, or bleeding concerns.
Keep your care plan
Keep your treatment and follow-up plan. Bring questions, readings, and your medication list.
02 / RECOGNIZE THE SYMPTOMS
2. What symptoms can AFib cause?
AFib feels different for everyone. Some people notice a racing or fluttering heartbeat. Others mainly feel tired, short of breath, or less able to do their usual activities.
Symptoms may include:
- Palpitations: A racing, pounding, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or having less energy.
- Shortness of breath: Becoming winded during activities that were previously easy.
- Reduced stamina: Difficulty keeping up with walking, exercise, or everyday tasks.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady.
- Weakness: Feeling drained or less strong than usual.
- Chest discomfort or pressure.
- Anxiety or uneasiness: Sometimes occurring with the sensation of a racing heartbeat.
Symptoms may come and go or persist while you are in AFib. You do not have to feel a fast heartbeat to have AFib.
Can I have AFib without symptoms?
Yes. Some people have no noticeable symptoms. AFib may be discovered during an EKG or heart-monitor recording.
Feeling well does not mean AFib is harmless. Even without symptoms, stroke risk still needs to be assessed and treated when appropriate.
When should I seek emergency help?
Call 911 for new or severe chest pain or pressure, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or signs of stroke, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or difficulty speaking. Do not assume these symptoms are simply from AFib.
Updated October 2026. Educational information; your own care plan may differ.