Experiences of living with symptomatic atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Aim: To explore the experiences of living with symptomatic atrial fibrillation. Design: This study, with a descriptive qualitative design, was performed using semi-structured individual interviews. Method: Six women and nine men with symptomatic atrial fibrillation were included. The transcribed interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The COREQ checklist was followed. Results: The analysis resulted in a main theme, namely balancing life and included the themes striving for illness control, becoming a receiver or an active partner in care and dealing with changed self-image. The participants strived to understand their illness, prevent attacks and manage anxiety. Some of the participants were not involved in decision-making, were uninformed about self-care measures, reported a lack of continuity in care and felt that the doctors focused on information about the medical part of care.