Skip to main navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
For
Medicare
For
Providers
For
Brokers
For
Employers
Español
For Individuals & Families:
For Individuals & Families
Medical
Dental
Other Supplemental
Explore coverage through work
How to Buy Health Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment
See all topics
Shop for Medicare plans
Member Guide
Find a Doctor
Log in to myCigna
Home
Knowledge Center
Wellness Library
Atrial Fibrillation and Daily Life
Atrial Fibrillation and Daily Life
Overview
Most people with atrial fibrillation don't have to change their daily activities. You can live well and safely with atrial fibrillation.
There are some precautions you can take to prevent problems from atrial fibrillation. For example, tell your doctor about any activities that trigger an episode of atrial fibrillation. And talk to your doctor before you start a new exercise program or change your workouts.
The table below describes some of the ways your life may be affected by your arrhythmia. It also offers tips on preventing problems.
Impact of atrial fibrillation on your daily life
Aspect of life
|
Potential impact of atrial fibrillation
|
Tips for success
|
Stress
|
Stressful situations can trigger an episode of atrial fibrillation or make your atrial fibrillation worse.
|
Try to lower the amount of stress at work or with family.
Try meditation and other relaxation techniques when stress is unavoidable.
|
Work
|
Most people with atrial fibrillation can continue working.
|
Avoid strenuous activity and extremely stressful situations at work.
|
Sexual activity
|
Most people with atrial fibrillation can lead normal sex lives as long as they can exercise and be active without having symptoms.
|
Let your doctor know if you experience symptoms of atrial fibrillation during sex.
|
Exercise
|
Intense exercise may trigger your arrhythmia or make your symptoms worse.
|
Call your doctor to report any symptoms. And avoid strenuous exercise if it causes symptoms.
|
Driving
|
You can drive unless your doctor advises against it.
|
Pull over and call your doctor if you start to feel symptoms or become lightheaded while operating a motor vehicle or other machinery.
|
Travel
|
Before each trip, talk with your doctor about your travel plans. He or she may be able to refer you to a doctor in the area that you will be visiting.
|
Bring the name and phone number of your doctor, in case your arrhythmia comes back and you need medical attention. Also, make sure to bring extra medicine.
|
For more information, see the topic:
-
Arrhythmias and Sexual Activity.
-
Fitness.
-
Stress Management.
-
Travel Health.
Current as of: January 10, 2022
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Rakesh K. Pai MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & John M. Miller MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.
© 1995-2022 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Related Links
Atrial Fibrillation
<cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>