What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Yes, it is possible, but a more likely explanation is ventricular ectopic beats (extra heartbeats) or other benign rhythm changes rather than atrial fibrillation (A-fib). These ectopic beats can cause an irregular rhythm on monitoring devices. Even in healthy individuals, such machines can sometimes falsely show irregular beats.

Several points argue against atrial fibrillation in your case. Your electrocardiogram (ECG) was normal, which is especially important if it was recorded while you were having symptoms. In addition, a doctor can often diagnose atrial fibrillation by examining your pulse and listening to your heart (auscultation). In true atrial fibrillation, the pulse usually varies widely, often exceeding 100 beats per minute, and people commonly feel a continuously irregular heartbeat. You may also notice missed or uneven pulses when checking your pulse with your fingers.

What you experienced could be ectopic beats, extra or skipped heartbeats that are common and often resolve on their own. The only way to definitively confirm the heart rhythm is with an ECG (electrocardiogram). If symptoms continue, you may need another ECG or consider using a home-based heart rhythm monitoring device that records ECG tracings for medical interpretation.

Overall, atrial fibrillation appears unlikely, but confirmation can be done with an ECG or by a doctor’s examination.

Chest discomfort in this situation can also be caused by gastritis or acid reflux, which commonly mimic heart-related symptoms. Ectopic beats themselves can sometimes cause chest discomfort. Anxiety can also produce similar symptoms.

Make sure you drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet. If you have been using these substances for a long time, withdrawal effects should also be considered.

Hope this helps you. Get back if you have any doubts.

Thanks and regards.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

In that case, it is unlikely to be A-fib (attachment removed to protect patient's identity). The reason for symptoms in A-fib is a high heart rate, which leads to low BP and dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest pain. And with heart rate well controlled, A-fib becomes less likely. Also, the tracing you attached appears normal, so it is unlikely to be A-fib. There is no need to stop Digoxin for ECG. In fact, I do not see any indication for Digoxin at present, as heart rate is well controlled. Have some antacids and consider the possibility of withdrawal as well. Also, get your blood pressure checked.

I hope this helps.

Thanks and regards.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You may take antacids with Digoxin. But, Digoxin is for rate control rather than rhythm control. The initial ECG also showed sinus rhythm when you were not on Digoxin. Also, Digoxin takes time to act, so overall it is unlikely to be A-fib and must be sinus tachycardia, which was controlled. Repeat ECG if necessary.

Thanks and regards.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is usually not permanent damage. Even if we consider that you initially had atrial fibrillation, it was likely drug-induced due to stimulation by the medication and is reversible in the majority of cases. The absence of ECG changes also makes permanent damage unlikely. Rhythm disturbances are usually transient. Overall, this does not appear to be a worrisome issue.

Thanks and regards.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Levels were reduced to nearly one-fourth after four days, and it is not therapeutic. So, yes, four days is sufficient time. Importantly, as I mentioned earlier, Digoxin does not significantly help maintain sinus rhythm, but it is used to control heart rate. So, you may stop it now and see the ECG after four days. Delaying the ECG by another two to three days would be better.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The rhythm does not appear normal. It suggests a junctional rhythm rather than a normal sinus rhythm. This can be associated with Digoxin use and may improve as the medication’s effects wear off.

It would be advisable to obtain a routine 12-lead ECG from your local doctor as soon as possible for proper confirmation, as portable monitors can sometimes be inaccurate or misleading. If available, you may also share your previous ECG for comparison, which can help assess any changes.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This tracing is absolutely fine. There is a normal rate and rhythm. This type of rhythm will not cause symptoms such as dizziness. Sinus tachycardia may be due to nervousness. I suggest you take some antacids and improve your diet. Just confirm your hemoglobin is normal.

Kindly update with the above question.

Thanks and regards.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, the tracing is a bit unusual, but since this is not the 12-lead ECG, these changes may be seen. If you are not on any potassium supplements or a potassium-rich diet, then hyperkalemia is not expected in otherwise normal individuals. If you are on it, you should resume a normal diet and have your potassium levels checked.

I hope this helps.

Thanks and regards.