Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders. Typical symptoms include palpitations, irregular pulse, fatigue and dizziness – but some people notice nothing at all. The condition raises the risk of stroke, heart failure and even falls. Risk factors include high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and older age. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Why Atrial Fibrillation Is Dangerous
Over 300,000 people in Sweden live with atrial fibrillation [1]. Many are unaware, as symptoms can be vague. The greatest danger is the increased risk of blood clots and stroke, but atrial fibrillation can also weaken the heart and cause heart failure.
The Irregular Rhythm
Normally, the heart beats in a steady rhythm guided by electrical signals. In atrial fibrillation, the atria beat rapidly and irregularly, creating an uneven pulse.
Three main types exist:
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Paroxysmal – episodes that stop on their own
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Persistent – longer episodes that require treatment
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Permanent – continuous atrial fibrillation
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary widely. The most common are:
Older adults often have more diffuse symptoms that may be mistaken for normal aging.
How Atrial Fibrillation Affects the Body
The irregular rhythm reduces pumping efficiency and allows blood to pool in the atria, forming clots. Consequences include:
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Stroke – risk increases fivefold
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Heart failure – as the heart weakens
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Reduced oxygen supply and stamina
Research also shows a link to dementia [3].
Risk Factors
Factors that increase risk include [4]:
Diagnosis and Treatment
AF is often detected through pulse checks and ECG. Long-term monitoring can reveal recurring episodes.
Treatment aims to:
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reduce stroke risk with blood thinners
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control heart rate with medication
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sometimes restore rhythm with cardioversion or drugs
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prevent relapse with lifestyle changes [5]
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek care if you experience sudden palpitations, irregular pulse, dizziness or breathlessness. Call emergency services if you have chest pain.
Atrial Fibrillation and the Risk of Falling
AF can increase fall risk through dizziness and sudden blood pressure drops. Blood thinners used to prevent stroke can also make fall injuries more serious [6].
This makes both medical treatment and fall prevention important, especially in older adults.
Safety alarm with automatic fall alarm can increase safety for people with an increased risk of falling
Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people who have an increased risk of falling. The personal alarm can automatically trigger the alarm in the event of a fall and then call relatives using the watch’s built-in speakerphone with two-way communication. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app.
