The Different Types of Atrial Fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, electrical signals fire from multiple locations in the atria (typically pulmonary veins), causing them to beat chaotically. Can Atrial Fibrillation Cause an Enlarged Heart? Some arrhythmias are serious, and others go unnoticed. But if you have other symptoms, you may have an underlying condition. In some cases when atrial fibrillation can't be controlled, the conduction node between the atria and the . Prompt treatment is vital to recovering from a stroke. I stopped taking it about 10 days ago and feel a little better. (3) Sent him the Bristol-Meyers Squibb link to the rare but severe side effects of Eliquis; was news to him! Afib is a type of arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm. Yep, naive. A clot that forms in the atria can travel to the brain.If it gets stuck in an artery, it can block blood flow and cause a stroke.. AFib medicines bring your heart back into a normal rhythm . (2016). WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Aug. 24, 2021. Ferri FF. You might not even know you have the condition in which your heartbeat is irregular and too fast. If you have AFib, the most common place your blood clot may travel is your brain. For the study,. Ask your doctor if there's a safe amount of alcohol you can drink. Stay away from foods heavy in fat, sugar, and salt. AFib can sometimes happen occasionally, and it may resolve on its own. These include: Knowing the signs of a stroke If you believe youre having a stroke, the National Stroke Association suggests using the term FAST to help you recognize common stroke symptoms. You may also notice increased urination. AFib may also be brought on by untreated related conditions, such as high blood pressure. Although A-fib itself usually isn't life-threatening, it's a serious medical condition that requires proper treatment to prevent stroke. If you have sick sinus syndrome, your heart may beat erratically. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is one of the types that starts suddenly and goes away own on its own. Did your doctor suggest you continue taking apixaban (Eliquis)? Accessed Aug. 3, 2021. That way, they can help, if you start to show symptoms. In: Cardiac Electrophysiology: From Cell to Bedside. While it is highly unlikely, you may have a tumor in your heart which is called a myxoma. Over time, AFib can cause the heart to weaken and malfunction. High BP usually doesnt bring on symptoms. You are more likely to develop sick sinus syndrome if you have had a heart attack. Its the most common complication after heart surgery, according to the American Heart Association. Paroxysmal AFib is an episode of an arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation. Thank you for sharing this. There can be chest awareness and chest discomfort. Prolonged atrial fibrillation causes more weakness than intermittent, controlled episodes of it. Find more COVID-19 testing locations on Maryland.gov. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). But ignoring symptoms could cause more damage to your body. Has anyone else encountered similar muscle effects following being prescribed Eliquis? Headache, dizziness,an inability to speak or smile, confusion, visual disturbances, or balance issues are signs of a stroke. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Treatment for atrial fibrillation may include medications, therapy to reset the heart rhythm and catheter procedures to block faulty heart signals. If they break away from there, they'll travel down to the left ventricle. Early treatment can reduce the risk of long-term complications. You might not have any symptoms of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Its common to have no symptoms of coronary disease. For example: Its also important to take steps to maintain good mental health. Some studies suggest that stress and mental health issues may cause your atrial fibrillation symptoms to worsen. The other type of weakness is a localized decrease in strength. When you have atrial fibrillation (AFib), theres a chance you could have another health condition as well. Poor blood supply to the heart or the rest of the body can cause a variety of symptoms that may seem unrelated. I don't miss my advil now. Researchers say 1 in 5 people who survive an ischemic stroke develop atrial fibrillation (AFib). Ablation, cardioversion, pacemaker, and more. These causes can affect the nerves, spine, or brain, leading to leg weakness. What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation (AFib or AF)? While it can be managed by treatments, AFib can eventually lead to serious complications. Fatigue and weakness. (2016, October). Symptoms of AFib can include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Chest pain could mean that you're having a heart attack. But if treatment keeps heart disease in check, your chances of getting atrial fibrillation from it are much lower. If the disease gets worse, it can bring on symptoms like: If you have an ongoing lung disease, especially emphysema (damaged air sacs), it might make you more likely to get atrial fibrillation. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries blood to your brain becomes blocked. Kumar K. Antiarrhythmic drugs to maintain sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation: Recommendations. Head to the nearest emergency room or call 911 if youre not sure whats going on. Living with heart failure. Some people with atrial fibrillation (A-fib) don't notice any symptoms. A burning sensation is a type of pain thats distinct from dull, stabbing, or aching pain. An important way to prevent blood clots and stroke if you have AFib is to treat any other conditions you might have that play a part in your AFib, including: Make sure your doctor is up to date on any medical conditions you have. If we combine this information with your protected
If you feel dizzy or faint, sit or lie down. Learn about diagnosis and treatment for AFib with RVR. Rarely, the underlying cause may be a serious medical condition requiring immediate medical attention. The risk rises with age. Read more about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. What causes weakness in legs? (2016, October 13), Treatment guidelines of atrial fibrillation (AFib or AF). Everyone gets tired from time to time, but the fatigue that accompanies a heart condition like Afib is often described as: The fatigue might be long term, or you might feel an intense exhaustion after an Afib attack. Notify your doctor so that tests can be conducted, if you think that you may have sick sinus syndrome. Toxic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by toxic substances, such as cleaning chemicals, insecticides and pesticides, and lead. Its more common than you might think. Masks are required inside all of our care facilities. The signal passes through a pathway between the upper and lower chambers called the atrioventricular (AV) node. All rights reserved. Call for help immediately and get to an emergency room. To understand the causes of A-fib, it may be helpful to know how the heart typically beats. The normal range for a heart rate is 60 to 100 beats a minute. The drugs slow down the heart rate and decrease episodes of atrial fibrillation. While this condition isnt fatal in itself, it can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. Different people experience palpitations differently, but theyre often described as: When the heart doesnt pump blood as it should, fluid can build up in the lungs, making it harder to breathe. The more severe someones heart failure is, the more likely they might be to get atrial fibrillation. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW The Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Ending the Opioid Crisis - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition, Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter Digital Edition, Caregiving for someone with atrial fibrillation, Catheter ablation to isolate the pulmonary veins to treat atrial fibrillation. It can be caused by injury, infection, and a number of conditions, including diabetes (diabetic neuropathy) and hypothyroidism. Herniated disk. Some people dont get symptoms of hyperthyroidism, but the signs can include: This is linked to worse odds of getting AFib, especially if you dont keep your blood sugar in check over the long term. I stopped taking it about", "Hi @strengthaxle66 and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. It has now been four+ years since I was first put on 5mg Eliquis 2x/day, complaining frequently to my 2013-2020 primary and to my 2021++ primary [change due to insurance changing], and to my Cardiologist about my leg weakness. In late July 2017 I was admitted for very high heart rate and Afib. Atrial Fibrillation and Strokes: What's the Risk if You Take Eliquis? Muscle stiffness often goes away on its own. Oxygen-rich blood is not being delivered to the body and brain, causing physical and mental fatigue and reduced stamina. 2019; doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0213198. Do you have a cold or other illness? Did you inform your physician that you were going off of the medication? Sudden leg weakness can be a sign of a serious underlying health issue and should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. The AV node is then bombarded with signals trying to get through to the lower heart chambers (ventricles). Early treatment for stroke can improve your prognosis. Many people experience palpitations noticeable feelings in your chest from an irregular heartbeat during episodes of Afib. 5-year outcomes after left atrial appendage closure: From the PREVAIL and PROTECT AF trials. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. You may become very aware of your own heartbeat. In fact, sleep apnea can increase the risk, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. No, we didn't connect that to my being on a new med! Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. If you smoke, your blood can thicken, which increases the chances of a blood clot. Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. With proper treatment, its possible to live a long and enjoyable life. AFib affects the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria. Pinched nerves are often caused by arthritis or spinal inflammation. Reddy VY, et al. It usually affects one side of your body. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. Taking Eliquis and Metoprolol for A-fib: Concerned about side effects: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/afib-5/ , According to Mayo Clinic, you should tell your doctor right away if you have tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness, especially in your legs and feet. Other symptoms include weight gain, lightheadedness, and a general feeling of discomfort and fatigue. Treatment for Pagets disease depends on the type. Thyroid disease is a common diagnosis. It had been a long time since they were asked to move that much! Back pain, which is worse at night or increases with activity, is the most common symptom. From there, the clot will move throughout the arteries, which carry blood from your heart to other parts of your body. Go to the Heart Rhythm Conditions Support Group. Stressful situations, panic disorders, and other types of emotional stress . Sciatica, which is caused by a pinched nerve in the lower back, is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which extends from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down the legs. You. Hopefully this isn't just my wishful thinking! You may experience additional symptoms. In addition, when your heart is beating rapidly, adequate amounts of oxygen may not be reaching the tissues of your body. Learn more: Vaccines, Boosters & Additional Doses | Testing | Patient Care | Visitor Guidelines | Coronavirus. I can say that I don't follow this diet religiously or 100%. Read labels so that you know what you're getting. Mayo Clinic Minute: What is atrial fibrillation? Its a condition in which your heart doesnt beat normally. I had it prior and was always helped with Advil which I can't take anymore.thus the diet change. Still kept me on it despite my every three months office checkups with EKG, and annual stress test never detecting Afib. Since the atrioventricular (AV) node doesn't prevent all of these chaotic signals from entering the ventricles, the heart beats faster and irregularly. I added your question to the Heart Rhythm Conditions group as well. If this occurs, contact your doctor, or go to an emergency room. If they are, your doctor will talk with you about lifestyle changes (such as nutrition, cutting down on sodium, and getting regular exercise) and perhaps also medication. This causes a fast and irregular heart rhythm. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. In: Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. You may have no symptoms of sick sinus syndrome or you may have several. Allscripts EPSi. Weakness can mean that you are experiencing a general feeling of fatigue. https://www.eliquis.bmscustomerconnect.com/afib/faq ( Look about 60% of the way down the pages.) Signs of hypothyroidism include weight gain, feelings of weakness, and sleepiness. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness in your voluntary skeletal muscles. Interested in more discussions like this? Accessed July 22, 2021. Effectiveness of screening for atrial fibrillation and its determinants. Wait for emergency responders to drive you to the hospital. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. In a typical heart, a tiny cluster of cells at the sinus node sends out an electrical signal. Which one is right for you depends on a variety of different factors. If the tumor presses on a nerve, it can cause numbness or weakness in the arms, legs, or chest. to ask questions, get answers, and find support from fellow Warriors! Shortness of breath, congestive heart failure, or faintness may occur. Lose weight.Obesity, and the issues connected to it, make strokes more likely. Reduced ability to exercise. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. It turns out that the racing heart, dizziness, and lightheadedness Hills felt are all classic symptoms of atrial fibrillation. If a blood clot in the left upper chamber (left atrium) breaks free from the heart area, it can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. (1) "Had" an adverse reaction; legs recovered quickly after going off Eliquis. Here are 13 ways to get your energy, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. If you experience shortness of breath, dizziness, chest or leg pain, call your doctor immediately, or go to the emergency room for further evaluation and treatment. Care available throughout the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., metro areas. Make sure to: Stop smoking. Symptoms include: With AFib, you may have a buildup of fluid in your legs, ankles, and feet. I got leg weakness within a month also of taking eliquis. Does older age increase the risk of atrial fibrillation? Get regular exercise, including aerobic exercise. Symptoms of the condition develop gradually over the years. Some people with atrial fibrillation (Afib) dont have any symptoms at all. You may also experience leg numbness and weakness. A steady heartbeat will make a blood clot less likely. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. They can include: If you think you may be having a stroke, call 911 or other emergency number. It's also not uncommon to experience irritability and muscle weakness during previously routine activities. Beta blocking heart medications may be recommended as well. Many people with sleep apnea also have AFib. Treatment involves medication to relieve nerve pain and limiting exposure to the toxin. I was only clued in ten days ago by my Chiropractor that he has seen several patients with my ongoing leg issues that began shortly after starting Eliquis. Write them down and share them with your doctor: Afib chest pain can be similar to the chest pain that occurs during a heart attack. Seek professional help for mental health conditions such as. Getting immediate medical attention is essential. If you experience weakness, be sure to give your health care provider a clear description of what is occurring. See your doctor if your pain lasts longer than a week or is severe. This can make you more likely to get atrial fibrillation compared to someone at a healthy weight. Drinking a lot of alcohol can also cause it. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which
. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. July 22, 2021. Others say theyre able to work, Want to know how to reduce stress naturally? Things that can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (A-fib) include: Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation that can lead to stroke. Weakness in your legs can affect how you walk. Having the consent conversation isnt just a one-time talk. She has a PhD in natural health and is a registered herbalist with the American Herbalists Guild. Following your doctors recommended treatment plan can help improve your outlook. If medication doesnt work, your doctor may recommend a procedure, such as: Electrical cardioversion. If you have atrial fibrillation -- an irregular and sometimes fast heart rate -- you could also get blood clots in the top part of your heart. If you develop symptoms of heart failure, make an appointment with your doctor. Last medically reviewed on October 24, 2018. It is important that you report your symptoms clearly so that your doctor can determine what is causing you to feel weak and so that a plan of action can be put into place so that the weakness is resolved. Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism can lead to heart failure. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Petryszyn P, et al. At 79 I am otherwise in very good condition (heart, BP, lungs, other organs, and labs within normal range), with the Afib under control. Hypothyroidism is effectively treated with medication. The typical heart has four chambers two upper chambers (atria) and two lower chambers (ventricles). Two types of Weakness If you experience weakness, be sure to give your health care provider a clear description of what is occurring. Review/update the
If you know that you have atrial fibrillation, you should tell your family and friends about stroke symptoms. Are you bored? In MS, your immune system attacks the myelin, which is the protective sheath around your nerves. Keep in mind that serious illnesses, such as diabetes and respiratory diseases cause weakness as well. This sends a high-energy shock to your heart in order to regulate your heartbeat. Its linked to worse odds of getting atrial fibrillation, especially in the first 6 months after you got a blood clot. Conservative treatment, including rest followed by physical therapy, usually relieves symptoms within a few weeks. yellow eyes or skin. Accessed Aug. 2, 2021. (2016, August 4), What is atrial fibrillation (AFib or AF)? (Kaiser, 2007 second edition) Your doctor can order imaging studies if this rare condition is suspected. This can make it harder for the heart to pump blood out to, Eliquis is an anticoagulant medication that lowers the risk of dangerous blood clots forming in your heart due to atrial fibrillation, the most common, Sleep apnea and AFib are two closely linked health conditions. If youre experiencing Afib symptoms, keep track of them and talk to your health care provider. (2) Cardiologist had kept me on Eliquis despite Medtronic loop recorder showing that only a small fraction of 1% of the time was I fleetingly in Afib throughout its battery life. This content does not have an English version. When I finally got to see a Neurologist at Shands (Univ of FL, Gainesville) in July 2018, he ran an extensive battery of blood work tests but could find nothing to explain the muscle weakness. In the meantime, here are 2 related discussions you may wish to review. You may feel exceptionally tired. Weak neck muscles make it hard to hold up your head. Accessed Aug. 2, 2021. https://www.hrsonline.org/guide-atrial-fibrillation. 2019; doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000000665. Sudden leg weakness could be a sign of a serious medical issue, such as a stroke. It never occurred to me or my wife that muscle weakness was a possible side effect of Eliquis as that isn't mentioned in the literature accompanying its initial Rx or any refills. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Your hair may be thin and your skin may be dry. Heart failure occurs when your heart is unable to pump blood efficiently. Researchers say fitness trackers such as smartphones can potentially interfere with the workings of implanted device such as pacemakers, but they note. Its a progressive neurological disease that damages nerve cells and often begins with muscle twitching and weakness in the legs. That can raise your odds for AFib. Congestive heart failure is a type of heart failure which requires seeking timely medical attention, although sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably. Accessed July 6, 2021. Other conditions can also cause leg weakness or difficulty walking. But noI did not have a health reason except for quality of life which is very important. Sometimes the cause is unknown. Theres no cure for MG, but early treatment can limit disease progression and help improve muscle weakness. Some experts recommend that everyone with atrial fibrillation get a blood test to check for hyperthyroidism. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is also known as Lou Gehrigs disease. Patricia is a registered nurse with 40 years of experience. I was asked by my physicians if I was experiencing weakness but the answer was always no. Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. There can be a general sensation of weakness in the legs as well as an overall uneasy feeling Overall fatigue is commonly associated with shortness of breath. Did they recommend something to take instead? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Limit or avoid alcohol. pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin. When blood isnt circulating through your body properly, blood clots are more likely to form. A slipped disc occurs when the gelatinous substance inside the discs that cushion your vertebrae protrudes through a tear in the exterior, causing pain. Do you consume an adequate amount of fluids? Here are some basic heart-healthy tips: Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. For example, your right arm may feel weak after bowling. Have you been eating a healthy diet? A feeling of sudden leg weakness, causing your legs to give out or buckle can be alarming. Practicing heart-healthy habits can help lower your risk of complications, including stroke and heart failure. Leg weakness can be due to systemic disease, inflammatory conditions, or medication side effects. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. By November 2017 I needed a walker. Medications and physical therapy can help reduce muscle loss caused by Parkinsons disease. During an episode of AFib, your pulse may feel like its racing, beating too slowly, or beating irregularly. Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage to your bodys peripheral nervous system, which connects the nerves from your central nervous system to the rest of your body. Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of your body. Within a few weeks my Cardiologist did an ablation and inserted a loop recorder. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) fact sheet. I am sorry you are having an adverse reaction. Having AFib also puts you at a higher risk for additional disorders that affect your hearts rhythm. Thats why youre more likely to develop heart failure if you have AFib. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation. The lack of blood supply can cause dizzy spells or lightheadedness. Eat a well-balanced diet thats low in salt, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. Other symptoms include: Treatment depends on the cause of the nerve damage and may begin with treating an underlying condition. Problems with movement are usually the first signs. In some cases, they may suggest surgery or other procedures. Sudden leg weakness can occur with an injury or due to a serious underlying medical condition, such as multiple sclerosis, a stroke, or other health conditions. We learn from each other. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. . I Ditched My Restrictive Doctor-Recommended Diet to Live My Life, 13 Fatigue-Fighting Hacks to Supercharge Your Mornings, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, eating a low-salt diet if you have hypertension, difficulty performing physical activities. Having your heart beat fast is exhausting. There are times when I want a treat and will add some cheese to my salad or a very small cup of ice cream. It means theres a buildup of plaque in the arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health
Practice stress-relief strategies such as meditation, rhythmic breathing, or journaling. At first, you might not have symptoms of heart failure. Circulation. The signal travels from the sinus node through the two upper heart chambers (atria). Many people with Afib also havesleep apnea. Sometimes weakness resolves on its own. Venous thromboembolism can become a chronic condition for some people. For example: In addition to AFib, several other health conditions can also raise your risk of stroke and heart failure. I feel like I have ALS, but hope it's eliquis poisoning that can be reversed. 11th ed. It affects the nerves of your arms and hands or legs and feet, causing nerve pain, numbness or tingling, and weakness that can lead to loss of movement. In that case, the problem may resolve without further intervention. Just because you have a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation does not mean that you wont feel tired due to common causes. (2016, September 13), Another complication of AFib: heart failure, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, How you can avoid the complications of atrial fibrillation, my.clevelandclinic.org/services/heart/disorders/heart-failure/living-with-heart-failure, heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Arrhythmia/AboutArrhythmia/Prevention-Strategies-for-Atrial-Fibrillation-AFib-or-AF_UCM_423784_Article.jsp#.WD8tl5Knbmg, heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Arrhythmia/AboutArrhythmia/Treatment-Guidelines-of-Atrial-Fibrillation-AFib-or-AF_UCM_423779_Article.jsp#.WD8xNJKnbmg, heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Arrhythmia/AboutArrhythmia/What-is-Atrial-Fibrillation-AFib-or-AF_UCM_423748_Article.jsp, nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hf/, heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Arrhythmia/AboutArrhythmia/Why-Atrial-Fibrillation-AF-or-AFib-Matters_UCM_423776_Article.jsp, Atrial Fibrillation: Facts, Statistics, and You, Atrial Fibrillation Blood Clots: Symptoms and Prevention, How Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers May Interfere With Pacemakers and Implanted Devices, Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Found in 1 on 5 Ischemic Stroke Survivors, 5 Apple Watch Features That Can Help You Monitor Your Heart Health. Signs of an overactive thyroid gland include, anxiety, palpitations, weight loss, bulging eyes and atrial fibrillation. Possible causes of atrial fibrillation include: Some people who have atrial fibrillation have no known heart problems or heart damage. This may help you feel better and can prevent injury from falling. "Hi @cmauncc1, welcome. If you have chest pain, seek immediate medical help. If you have atrial fibrillation, you have an elevated risk of developing heart failure. But if you do, the warning signs can include: This is a problem with your hearts structure that you were born with. Many people suffer from transient ischemic attacks, also known as TIAs or mini- strokes. If this occurs, you may develop feelings of weakness and shortness of breath. Dizziness and fainting are symptoms of many different medical conditions, including Afib. As a result, the upper chambers shake (quiver). Braswell Pickering EA. Episodes of atrial fibrillation may come and go, or they may be persistent. Doctors often recommend them as a means to avoid radiation and surgical intervention. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/heart-rhythm-conditions/, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/side-effects-of-eliquis/, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/afib-5/, https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/apixaban-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20060729?p=1, https://www.eliquis.bmscustomerconnect.com/afib/faq. You might find an overall reduced ability to exercise due to the effects of AFib. Its also not uncommon to experience irritability and muscle weakness during previously routine activities. The risk appears to be higher the longer you smoke and decreases if you quit. Over time, Afib can contribute to heart attack or heart failure.