Heart failure happens when the heart does not pump enough blood to meet the whole body's needs. Untreated, AFib sometimes leads to heart failure because the increased heart rate and incomplete filling of the heart chambers mean the organ cannot fill with enough blood to pump efficiently through the body. Blood then pools in the veins leading from the lungs to the heart, causing fluid to back up into the lungs and resulting in shortness of breath, wheezing, gasping, and fatigue.

This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.