Patient's question:
Mom has always been very healthy and has paid attention to her well-being. Since last year, she has been feeling that her heart isn't comfortable and has started experiencing palpitations, often holding her breath. Besides the sensation of shortness of breath, there is also a feeling of pain. Is this irregular heartbeat, atrial fibrillation, a sign of heart disease?Doctor's answer:
Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia, with its main symptoms being palpitations and a racing heart. In some cases, it can even lead to chest pain. If there is coronary heart disease, the occurrence of atrial fibrillation can further worsen the condition. Diagnosing atrial fibrillation requires an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a 24-hour Holter monitor, but discomfort in the heart does not necessarily indicate atrial fibrillation; paroxysmal tachycardia and premature beats can also cause discomfort and a sensation of palpitations.