Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh exited Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos early in the first quarter due to an atrial flutter, a condition that causes the heartbeat to become abnormally fast and irregular.
San Diego, CA - Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh was forced to leave the team's game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday after experiencing an atrial flutter, an abnormal heart rhythm that causes the heart to beat too fast.
Chargers' Harbaugh Suffers Atrial Flutter During Broncos Game
Harbaugh exited the game with just over nine minutes remaining in the first quarter. He was replaced by assistant head coach Shane Steichen, who led the Chargers to a 19-16 victory.
After the game, Harbaugh explained that he had been experiencing symptoms of the atrial flutter for a few days, but had not sought medical attention. He said that he felt lightheaded and had difficulty concentrating during the game.
"I just didn't feel right," Harbaugh said. "My heart was racing, and I couldn't focus. I knew I had to get out of there."
Atrial flutter is a relatively common heart arrhythmia, affecting approximately 3 million people in the United States. It occurs when electrical signals in the heart's upper chambers, known as the atria, become disorganized, causing the heart to beat too fast.
Symptoms of atrial flutter can include palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. In some cases, atrial flutter can lead to more serious complications, such as blood clots, stroke, or heart failure.
Harbaugh said that he has been prescribed medication to control his heart rhythm and will undergo further testing to determine if he needs additional treatment.
"I'm feeling much better now," Harbaugh said. "I'm just glad I listened to my body and got out of the game when I did."
The Chargers are scheduled to play the Cleveland Browns in their next game on October 9th. It is unclear if Harbaugh will be able to coach the team in that game.
"We'll see how I feel in the next few days," Harbaugh said. "I'm just taking it one day at a time."
Harbaugh's absence from the sideline would be a significant loss for the Chargers. He is one of the most successful coaches in the NFL, having led the San Francisco 49ers to three NFC Championship Games and one Super Bowl appearance.
The Chargers are 2-2 on the season and are in second place in the AFC West. They are hoping to make a run at the playoffs this year, and Harbaugh's leadership will be key to their success.
