A new national survey reveals that over a third of Australians aged 50+ with an irregular heartbeat – known as atrial fibrillation (AF) – wait until they experience four or more symptoms before seeking medical help.

This comes as AF continues to rise across the country, with more than half a million Australians now affected. AF is a progressive, lifelong condition in which the heart’s upper chambers (the atria) beat irregularly and out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles), disrupting the heart’s normal rhythm.

What are the signs of AF?

Common symptoms include:

  • Heart palpitations (fluttering or racing heartbeat)
  • Chest tightness
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness

However, 30% to 40% of people with AF experience no obvious symptoms, making it difficult to detect and diagnose.

“While many adults say they understand heart health, 34% of people with AF wait until they’ve had four or more symptoms before speaking to a doctor,” said Dr Tomos Walters, Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist at Queensland Cardiovascular Group.

“This delay – combined with low awareness and a large number of symptom-free cases – is creating a ‘perfect storm’ for one of the most pressing public health issues of our time.”

The risks of leaving AF untreated

AF isn’t just uncomfortable – it’s dangerous. It triples the risk of heart failure, makes stroke nearly five times more likely, and doubles the risk of dementia.

And with Australia’s ageing population and rising rates of overweight and obesity, AF cases in people over 55 are expected to double within 20 years.

The emotional toll of AF

The survey also found that:

  • 77% of people with AF or its symptoms feel anxious or worried
  • 13% report experiencing severe anxiety
  • 31% say their quality of life and ability to perform daily tasks has declined
  • Only 31% feel motivated to take a more proactive role in managing their heart health – even after learning about the heightened risk of stroke

“Mental and emotional stress can affect the heart. Anxiety is known to trigger arrhythmias like AF,” said Dr Emily Kotschet, Cardiologist and Cardiac Electrophysiologist at Monash Heart, Melbourne.

“Depression and anxiety don’t just make AF symptoms worse – they can increase the risk of it returning.”

The importance of physical activity

Staying active is one of the best ways to prevent or manage AF. But 72% of Australians living with AF say the condition affects their ability to exercise, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.

“Even light, regular movement can make a big difference,” said Dr Kotschet. “Daily activity helps manage AF and reduces the risk of related health problems. The goal is to move more, not push too hard.”

Why early diagnosis matters

Early detection of AF is essential. It allows for better management and can significantly lower the risk of serious complications.

If you’re over 50 and notice changes in your heartbeat or experience symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath, don’t delay – speak to your GP. Even without symptoms, regular heart health checks are key to staying on top of your wellbeing.

Fast facts: Atrial fibrillation in Australia

  • Affects over 500,000 Australians
  • Can present without symptoms in 30-40% of cases
  • Triples risk of heart failure, increases stroke risk 5x
  • Only 31% feel motivated to manage their heart health

Early diagnosis. Regular movement. Proactive care. These simple steps can help reduce the burden of AF for thousands of Australians.