Atrial Fibrillation Slideshow Pictures Heart Disease Slideshow Pictures Heart Symptoms Not to Ignore Slideshow Pictures

When to Seek Medical Care

Call for treatment within 24 hours if you have atrial fibrillation that comes and goes, have previously been evaluated and treated, and are not experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or fainting.

Call if you have persistent atrial fibrillation while you are on medical therapy for the condition or you note worsening of your symptoms, or new symptoms such as fatigue or mild shortness of breath.

Call if you have questions about medications and dosages.

Call 911 for emergency medical services when atrial fibrillation occurs with any of the following:

• Severe shortness of breath
  
  
• Chest pain
  
  
• Fainting or light headedness
  
  
• Weakness
  
  
• Very rapid heartbeat or palpitations

Not all heart palpitations are atrial fibrillation, but a continuing feeling of your heart fluttering in your chest together with a fast or slow pulse should be evaluated by your doctor or at a hospital emergency department.