Mistakes Afib Patients Make

Your heart races. You feel dizzy. Then it stops, only to return days or weeks later. That’s life with AFib for many people.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart rhythm disorder that causes the heart to beat irregularly or too fast. This abnormal rhythm can cause heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness and chest pain — or sometimes, no symptoms at all.

In many cases, AFib is manageable. But for some, it may disrupt daily life. AFib symptoms can come on suddenly, and that can cause emotional stress and anxiety.

"Any new heart condition can be scary, especially if you’re not familiar with it and the symptoms aren’t consistent," said Faheem Ahmad, MD, a cardiologist at Franciscan Health Crown Point. "Often, the faster someone’s heart rate, the more symptomatic they are. But even then, it varies from person to person."

Left unmanaged, AFib can increase your risk of complications like stroke or heart failure. But with knowledge and support, most people live full, active lives. Understanding how AFib works and what triggers to avoid can help you take control.

Let’s explore some common AFib mistakes and what you can do instead to protect your heart health.

Key Takeaways: Living With AFib

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart rhythm disorder that increases stroke and heart failure risk. Manage AFib symptoms and avoid triggers like alcohol, caffeine and smoking to protect your heart health.
• AFib increases the risk of stroke and heart failure, even if you don’t notice symptoms.
• Avoiding common AFib mistakes, like ignoring symptoms, drinking too much alcohol or caffeine, or skipping treatment, can help protect your heart health.
• With the right AFib treatment plan, most people can manage symptoms and live full, active lives.

1. Ignoring AFib Symptoms

Don’t ignore the warning signs of AFib. Even mild or occasional symptoms may signal a serious heart rhythm issue that requires prompt treatment.

Common symptoms of AFib include:

• Chest discomfort: Some people experience pressure, tightness or squeezing in their chest during an AFib episode.
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating: AFib can sometimes affect how you think, especially older adults and people with other health conditions.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: You might feel faint, unsteady or like the room is spinning.
• Fatigue and weakness: AFib can make you feel more tired than usual, even after a good night’s sleep. You might notice it’s harder to exercise or do physical activities.
• Irregular or rapid heart rate: Your heart may feel like it’s fluttering, pounding or skipping beats. You might notice an uneven pulse or sudden racing heart.
• Shortness of breath: You may have difficulty breathing, whether you’re exercising or simply resting.

Not everyone with AFib has symptoms, but the risk of stroke, heart failure and other complications is still there. If something feels off with your heartbeat, breathing or energy level, talk to your doctor.

2. Taking Medications That Trigger AFib

Some medications can increase your risk of an AFib episode, especially if you already have underlying heart rhythm issues. These medicines may raise your heart rate, overstimulate your system or affect your heart’s electrical signals.

Medications that may trigger AFib include:

• Stimulants: Some over-the-counter medications that contain pseudoephedrine or ephedrine (often found in cold and allergy medications) are stimulants. They can speed up your heart rate and may trigger AFib if you’re susceptible.
• Thyroid medications: Medications like levothyroxine, used to treat thyroid disorders, can lead to AFib, especially if the dosage is too high.
• Other medications: Some antibiotics, antihistamines and antidepressants link to AFib.

If you have AFib — or think you might — talk to your doctor before you start any new medication, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. They can help you weigh the risks and find safer alternatives.

3. Consuming Too Much Caffeine With AFib

Caffeine can trigger or worsen AFib symptoms in some people. If you have AFib, it’s important to be mindful of your caffeine intake from sources like coffee, tea, energy drinks, soda and chocolate.

How caffeine affects AFib

Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase your heart rate and cause palpitations — two common AFib symptoms. However, the relationship between caffeine and AFib isn’t the same for everyone. Some people can tolerate small amounts without issues. Others may notice symptoms with a single cup of coffee. Talk to your doctor about how much caffeine is safe for you.

4. Drinking Alcohol With AFib

Alcohol is a common trigger for atrial fibrillation episodes, especially when consumed in large amounts. Even moderate drinking can lead to irregular heartbeats.

How alcohol affects AFib

Alcohol can irritate the heart’s electrical system and cause it to beat irregularly. Also called "holiday heart syndrome," it’s when otherwise healthy people experience an AFib episode after heavy drinking.

Excessive alcohol use also increases your risk of developing other conditions, such as high blood pressure, which can make AFib symptoms worse.

If you have AFib or are at risk, talk to your doctor about how much alcohol is safe for you. Some people may need to avoid it entirely, while others may tolerate small amounts.

5. Smoking When You Have AFib

Smoking is one of the most harmful choices you can make if you have AFib. You may already face a higher risk of heart disease and stroke, and smoking raises your risk even more. One of the most effective ways to protect your heart and reduce AFib complications is to quit smoking.

Here’s how smoking affects AFib:

• Increases your risk for AFib: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases plaque buildup, which narrows the arteries. This makes it more likely that AFib will develop.
• Makes AFib symptoms worse: Smoking triggers inflammation and damages heart tissue, which can intensify palpitations, chest discomfort and shortness of breath.
• Raises your risk for other complications: For people with AFib, smoking further increases the chance of stroke, blood clots, heart disease and heart failure.
• Reduces AFib treatment effectiveness: Smoking interferes with some medications for AFib.

If you want to stop smoking and need help, talk to your doctor or explore resources like the Aspire tobacco cessation program at Franciscan Health.

6. Thinking You Can’t Exercise with AFib

Living with AFib doesn’t mean you need to avoid exercise. In fact, regular physical activity is good for your heart and overall health. The key is to talk to your doctor to find the safest type and level of exercise for your needs.

Why exercise matters with AFib

Exercise can help strengthen your heart, improve circulation, lower blood pressure and reduce stress, all of which support better heart rhythm management. But your doctor should guide you on what’s safe based on your other health conditions and current fitness level.

Exercise safety tips for people with AFib

Always listen to your body during physical activity. Stop exercise right away if you experience:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Severe shortness of breath
• Strong heart palpitations or a racing heartbeat

These signs may be symptoms of heart failure or another serious complication. If you notice any of them, contact your doctor right away.

7. Ignoring Your Atrial Fibrillation Treatments

Your AFib treatment plan is your guide to protect your heart health. Even if your symptoms improve, continue following the plan your doctor created for you. Your treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes and other interventions to keep your heart rhythm under control.

"There are many small things you can do to help manage your AFib," said Philip George Jr, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist with Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians Indianapolis. "It's important to focus on all your potential risk factors.”

Dr. George recommends several lifestyle changes to support AFib management. Here’s what you can do:

• Control high blood pressure
• Get screened and treated for sleep apnea
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
• Maintain a healthy weight (BMI below 30)
• Stay physically active with safe cardiovascular exercise

No matter what treatments you receive, one of the most powerful ways you can live well with AFib is to choose heart-healthy habits.