One of the most common heart rhythm problems and a major cause of stroke is atrial fibrillation. It’s estimated that one in four people will develop it but do you know what it is and would you know how to recognise the symptoms?


It’s the Atrial Fibrillation Association’s Aware Week (24-30 Nov) – aimed at raising awareness of what it is and what to look so you can get help to manage and treat it. 


The condition causes your heart to beat irregularly - it’s generally not life threatening, but it can be uncomfortable and often needs treatment. 

Some people will have no symptoms, but for others you might experience:

  • palpitations  (a fast, pounding heart rate)
  • shortnesss of breath
  • dizziness 
  • tiredness
  • light headedness  (feeling faint)

By regularly checking your pulse you might be able to spot any irregularities.

Everyone is different but as a guide, your heart rate should be between 60-100 beats a minute when you’re resting however, there are normal reasons why your pulse may be slower or faster.

We recommend booking an appointment to see your GP if your pulse is consistently above 120 or below 40 beats per minute or if there’s anything that’s concerning you. 

If your GP thinks that you might have the condition they can refer you to Wirral Community NHS Trust’s Heart Support Service who will carry out heart recording tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) to confirm if you have atrial fibrillation and will provide you with treatment and support.  

Four steps to checking your pulse:  

1. avoid taking any caffeine or other stimulants, then sit down for 5 minutes
2. hold your hand out, palm up, with your elbow slightly bent
3. place your index and middle fingers on your wrist, at the base of your thumb
4. once you’ve found your pulse, continue to feel it for about 20-30 seconds. Feel the rhythm of the pulse and check if it’s regular or irregular.

Visit the Wirral Community NHS Trust website to download the Arrhythmia Alliance ‘Know your pulse guide’

Other factors that can increase the risk of stroke include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, being overweight and diabetes.