I defintely know when I have afib- symptoms are dramatic- and end up in ambulance, ER, even ICU because my heart rate goes up to 190 or so and I have low blood pressure, so meds to bring heart rate down are tricky. I can easily feel it convert.

I have worn monitors and they confirm that afib only happens when I feel it. No asymptomatic afib.

I have never been given short term anticoagulation though one hospital did an echo to check for clots when I had an episode that lasted 7 hours.

I am 77 yo man, fit and otherwise healthy, diagnosed with AF couple years ago, though no doubt had episodes for much longer. My episodes before Flecainide twice lasted about 6 hours. Since meds, just some palpitations and very rare runs of AFib just seconds long and two episodes 1.5 year apart lasting 2 hours, all converted unassisted. I do not take anticoagulant, but since last more recent 2hr episode, I filled a prescription and carry with me in the event I have an episode lasting more than, say, 30 minutes. Then, will begin taking the anticoagulant and decide what to do with future doses from there. I can ALWAYS tell when I’m AFib, and know will awaken me if asleep, so not worried about something silent getting past me.

I always know when I am out of rhythm. Have not had Afib occurrence in a year but Doctor keeps me on Eliquis. I think they don’t believe you when you tell them you know?