Migotanie przedsionków – Etiologia i przyczyny

Migotanie przedsionków
Etiologia i przyczyny

Migotanie przedsionków (AF) jest najczęstszą arytmią serca, charakteryzującą się nieregularnym i często przyspieszonym rytmem spowodowanym chaotycznym pobudzaniem przedsionków. Etiologia AF jest wieloczynnikowa, z dominującą rolą chorób strukturalnych serca, takich jak nadciśnienie tętnicze (odpowiedzialne za około 20% przypadków), choroba wieńcowa, wady zastawkowe (np. stenoza i niedomykalność mitralna), kardiomiopatie, niewydolność serca oraz przerost lewego przedsionka. Czynniki niezwiązane bezpośrednio z sercem, takie jak nadczynność tarczycy, cukrzyca, przewlekła choroba nerek, obturacyjny bezdech senny (występujący u około 50% pacjentów z AF), choroby płuc, otyłość, zaburzenia elektrolitowe (hipokaliemia, hipomagnezemia) oraz stany zapalne, również predysponują do rozwoju arytmii. Wiek jest najsilniejszym niemodyfikowalnym czynnikiem ryzyka, z częstością AF sięgającą około 8% u osób powyżej 80 roku życia, a ryzykiem rozwoju w ciągu życia po 40 roku życia wynoszącym około 25%.

Migotanie przedsionków – etiologia, przyczyny powstawania

Przyczyny kardiologiczne
Przyczyny pozakardiologiczne
Czynniki genetyczne i dziedziczne
Wiek i płeć jako czynniki ryzyka
Czynniki stylu życia i środowiskowe
Jatrogeniczne przyczyny migotania przedsionków
Patomechanizm powstawania migotania przedsionków

Specyficzne populacje i sytuacje kliniczne

Migotanie przedsionków u młodych osób
Migotanie przedsionków pooperacyjne
Migotanie przedsionków a udar mózgu
Migotanie przedsionków związane z nadczynnością tarczycy

Progresja i konsekwencje migotania przedsionków
Podsumowanie etiologii migotania przedsionków

Kolejne rozdziały

Migotanie przedsionków – etiologia, przyczyny powstawania

Migotanie przedsionków (ang. Atrial Fibrillation, AF lub AFib) jest najczęstszym typem arytmii serca charakteryzującym się nieregularnym, często przyspieszonym rytmem, wynikającym z chaotycznego pobudzania przedsionków. To schorzenie kardiologiczne dotyka miliony osób na całym świecie, a jego częstość występowania wzrasta wraz z wiekiem pacjenta.¹² Migotanie przedsionków może być konsekwencją wielu różnych czynników, w tym chorób strukturalnych serca, zaburzeń metabolicznych, infekcji oraz czynników stylu życia. Dokładne zrozumienie etiologii migotania przedsionków jest kluczowe dla właściwego leczenia i zapobiegania potencjalnym powikłaniom, takim jak udar mózgu czy niewydolność serca.³

Przyczyny kardiologiczne

Najczęstszymi przyczynami migotania przedsionków są choroby strukturalne serca. Zaburzenia w budowie anatomicznej lub funkcjonowaniu serca prowadzą do zmian w jego tkance i systemie elektrycznym, co sprzyja rozwojowi arytmii.⁴ Do najważniejszych kardiologicznych przyczyn migotania przedsionków należą:

Nadciśnienie tętnicze – jest najważniejszym modyfikowalnym czynnikiem ryzyka, odpowiadającym za około 20% przypadków migotania przedsionków; przewlekle podwyższone ciśnienie zwiększa obciążenie serca, prowadząc do przerostu i remodelingu lewego przedsionka⁵⁶
Choroba wieńcowa – zwężenie lub niedrożność tętnic wieńcowych może powodować niedokrwienie miokardium i zaburzać przewodzenie impulsów elektrycznych⁷⁸
Wady zastawkowe serca – szczególnie stenoza mitralna i niedomykalność zastawki mitralnej, zwiększają ciśnienie w przedsionkach, prowadząc do ich rozciągnięcia i przebudowy⁹¹⁰
Kardiomiopatia – zarówno rozstrzeniowa, przerostowa jak i restrykcyjna mogą predysponować do migotania przedsionków¹¹
Choroba niedokrwienna serca i przebyty zawał – związane z uszkodzeniem tkanki mięśnia sercowego¹²
Niewydolność serca – zarówno jako przyczyna, jak i skutek migotania przedsionków¹³
Przerost lewego przedsionka – zwiększa podatność na powstawanie chaotycznych impulsów elektrycznych¹⁴
Zapalenie mięśnia sercowego (myocarditis) i osierdzia (pericarditis) – mogą być idiopatyczne lub związane z chorobami układowymi, wirusowymi lub bakteryjnymi infekcjami¹⁵
Zespół chorego węzła zatokowego – zaburzenie funkcji naturalnego rozrusznika serca¹⁶¹⁷
Wrodzone wady serca – obecne od urodzenia nieprawidłowości w budowie serca¹⁸

Przyczyny pozakardiologiczne

Istnieje szereg czynników niezwiązanych bezpośrednio z sercem, które mogą wywołać migotanie przedsionków lub przyczyniać się do jego rozwoju:¹⁹

Nadczynność tarczycy (hipertyreoza) – nadmierna produkcja hormonów tarczycy przyspiesza metabolizm i pracę serca, co może prowadzić do migotania przedsionków; jest to najczęstsza arytmia w przebiegu hipertyreozy²⁰²¹
Cukrzyca – powoduje zmiany metaboliczne i naczyniowe, które mogą wpływać na funkcję serca²²
Przewlekła choroba nerek – wiąże się z zaburzeniami elektrolitowymi i metabolicznymi, które mogą wpływać na rytm serca²³
Obturacyjny bezdech senny – epizody bezdechu podczas snu powodują nagłe spadki saturacji krwi tlenem, co wywołuje stres mechaniczny i chemiczny dla serca; około połowa pacjentów z migotaniem przedsionków cierpi na obturacyjny bezdech senny²⁴²⁵
Choroby płuc – POChP, zapalenie płuc, zatorowość płucna mogą przyczyniać się do rozwoju migotania przedsionków²⁶
Otyłość – znacząco zwiększa ryzyko migotania przedsionków poprzez wpływ na strukturę i funkcję serca²⁷
Sepsa i stan zapalny – procesy zapalne w organizmie zwiększają ryzyko wystąpienia migotania przedsionków²⁸²⁹
Zaburzenia elektrolitowe – szczególnie hipokaliemia (niski poziom potasu) i hipomagnezemia (niski poziom magnezu)³⁰³¹
Choroby neurologiczne – takie jak krwotok podpajęczynówkowy czy udar mózgu³²
Leki i substancje stymulujące – niektóre leki przeciwzapalne, steroidy w wysokich dawkach, leki sympatykomimetyczne czy preparaty zawierające pseudoefedrynę³³

Czynniki genetyczne i dziedziczne

Coraz więcej dowodów wskazuje na istotną rolę czynników genetycznych w rozwoju migotania przedsionków:³⁴

Rodzinne występowanie migotania przedsionków – ryzyko rozwoju arytmii jest wyższe u osób, których bliscy krewni (rodzice, rodzeństwo) również cierpią na tę dolegliwość³⁵³⁶
Specyficzne mutacje genetyczne – zidentyfikowano szereg genów, których mutacje mogą predysponować do rozwoju migotania przedsionków³⁷
Idiopatyczne (samotne) migotanie przedsionków – występuje u młodszych osób bez strukturalnych chorób serca i może mieć podłoże genetyczne³⁸

U około 15% pacjentów z migotaniem przedsionków nie stwierdza się żadnych czynników ryzyka ani chorób towarzyszących – określa się to jako idiopatyczne lub samotne migotanie przedsionków (lone atrial fibrillation).³⁹

Wiek i płeć jako czynniki ryzyka

Wiek jest najsilniejszym niemodyfikowalnym czynnikiem ryzyka migotania przedsionków:⁴⁰

Częstość występowania migotania przedsionków znacząco wzrasta po 65 roku życia⁴¹
U osób powyżej 80 roku życia częstość występowania sięga około 8%⁴²
Ryzyko rozwoju migotania przedsionków w ciągu życia po 40 roku życia wynosi około 25%⁴³
Mężczyźni są częściej dotknięci migotaniem przedsionków niż kobiety, jednak u kobiet arytmia ta wiąże się z wyższym ryzykiem udaru i zgonu⁴⁴

Czynniki stylu życia i środowiskowe

Określone zachowania i wpływy środowiskowe mogą zwiększać ryzyko wystąpienia migotania przedsionków lub wywoływać jego epizody:⁴⁵

Alkohol – nadmierne spożycie, szczególnie w formie ciągów alkoholowych („syndrom weekendowego serca”), jest silnym czynnikiem wyzwalającym migotanie przedsionków⁴⁶⁴⁷
Kofeina – u osób wrażliwych może wyzwalać epizody arytmii⁴⁸
Palenie tytoniu – zwiększa ryzyko rozwoju migotania przedsionków⁴⁹
Używanie narkotyków – szczególnie stymulantów, takich jak kokaina i amfetamina⁵⁰
Stres – zarówno fizyczny jak i emocjonalny może wywoływać lub zaostrzać migotanie przedsionków⁵¹
Aktywność fizyczna – zarówno brak aktywności fizycznej, jak i ekstremalny wysiłek fizyczny (szczególnie wytrzymałościowy trening wysokiej intensywności przez wiele lat) mogą zwiększać ryzyko migotania przedsionków⁵²⁵³
Odwodnienie – może być czynnikiem wyzwalającym epizody migotania przedsionków⁵⁴
Zaburzenia snu – niewystarczająca ilość snu może przyczyniać się do wystąpienia arytmii⁵⁵

Jatrogeniczne przyczyny migotania przedsionków

Niektóre interwencje medyczne mogą przyczyniać się do rozwoju migotania przedsionków:⁵⁶

Zabiegi kardiochirurgiczne – migotanie przedsionków może wystąpić u 20-40% pacjentów po operacjach serca, zwłaszcza po pomostowaniu aortalno-wieńcowym (CABG)⁵⁷
Operacje torakochirurgiczne – zabieg na płucach lub przełyku⁵⁸
Leki – niektóre leki mogą wyzwalać migotanie przedsionków, w tym sympatykomimetyki, leki przeciwzapalne, niektóre antybiotyki, leki przeciwpsychotyczne⁵⁹

Patomechanizm powstawania migotania przedsionków

Dokładne mechanizmy powstawania migotania przedsionków wciąż są przedmiotem intensywnych badań, ale obecny stan wiedzy wskazuje na następujące procesy:⁶⁰⁶¹

Zaburzenia elektrofizjologiczne – najczęściej migotanie przedsionków rozpoczyna się od ognisk ektopowych w żyłach płucnych, które generują chaotyczne impulsy elektryczne⁶²⁶³
Remodeling przedsionków – przewlekłe migotanie przedsionków prowadzi do zmian strukturalnych i elektrycznych w tkance przedsionków, co sprzyja utrzymywaniu się arytmii („migotanie rodzi migotanie”)⁶⁴
Mikro-reentry i wzmożona automatyzacja – mechanizmy nawrotnego pobudzania w obrębie jednego lub więcej obwodów przedsionkowych⁶⁵
Zaburzenia autonomicznego układu nerwowego – nadmierna aktywność układu współczulnego lub przywspółczulnego może przyczyniać się do rozwoju migotania przedsionków⁶⁶
Zapalenie i stres oksydacyjny – procesy zapalne w sercu mogą zmieniać właściwości elektryczne tkanki przedsionków⁶⁷
Zwłóknienie i przerost przedsionków – prowadzą do niejednolitego przewodzenia impulsów elektrycznych⁶⁸

Specyficzne populacje i sytuacje kliniczne

Migotanie przedsionków u młodych osób

Chociaż migotanie przedsionków jest typowo chorobą osób starszych, może wystąpić również u młodszych pacjentów:⁶⁹

U młodych osób częściej występuje idiopatyczne (samotne) migotanie przedsionków⁷⁰
Czynniki genetyczne odgrywają większą rolę w tej grupie wiekowej⁷¹
Częściej występuje w kontekście intensywnego treningu sportowego lub przy spożyciu alkoholu i stymulantów⁷²

Migotanie przedsionków pooperacyjne

Migotanie przedsionków po operacjach chirurgicznych stanowi istotny problem kliniczny:⁷³

Najczęściej występuje po operacjach serca (20-40% pacjentów)⁷⁴
Może również wystąpić po operacjach niesercowych, szczególnie torakochirurgicznych⁷⁵
Zwykle pojawia się w ciągu pierwszych dni po zabiegu⁷⁶
Czynniki ryzyka obejmują podeszły wiek, wcześniejsze epizody migotania przedsionków, powiększenie lewego przedsionka oraz przewlekłe choroby serca i płuc⁷⁷

Migotanie przedsionków a udar mózgu

Jednym z najpoważniejszych powikłań migotania przedsionków jest udar mózgu:⁷⁸

Migotanie przedsionków zwiększa ryzyko udaru mózgu około 5-krotnie⁷⁹
Odpowiada za około 1 na 7 udarów niedokrwiennych⁸⁰
Mechanizm powstawania udaru związany jest z tworzeniem się skrzeplin w lewym przedsionku, szczególnie w uszku lewego przedsionka, w wyniku zastoju krwi⁸¹⁸²
Udary związane z migotaniem przedsionków są zwykle cięższe niż udary o innej etiologii⁸³

Migotanie przedsionków związane z nadczynnością tarczycy

Nadczynność tarczycy jest istotną odwracalną przyczyną migotania przedsionków:⁸⁴

Migotanie przedsionków jest najczęstszą arytmią u pacjentów z hipertyreozą⁸⁵
Hormony tarczycy przyspieszają metabolizm całego organizmu, w tym serca⁸⁶
Leczenie nadczynności tarczycy często prowadzi do powrotu prawidłowego rytmu zatokowego⁸⁷

Progresja i konsekwencje migotania przedsionków

Migotanie przedsionków często progresuje z postaci napadowej do utrwalonej:⁸⁸

W miarę trwania arytmii dochodzi do remodelingu elektrycznego i strukturalnego przedsionków⁸⁹
Zmiany te utrudniają przywrócenie i utrzymanie rytmu zatokowego⁹⁰
Tempo progresji jest zróżnicowane i zależy od współistniejących chorób oraz kontroli czynników ryzyka⁹¹

Migotanie przedsionków wiąże się z istotnymi konsekwencjami zdrowotnymi:⁹²

Udar mózgu i zatory obwodowe – związane z tworzeniem się skrzeplin w lewym przedsionku, szczególnie w jego uszku⁹³
Niewydolność serca – długotrwała szybka akcja komór może prowadzić do kardiomiopatii tachyarytmicznej i niewydolności serca⁹⁴
Pogorszenie jakości życia – objawy takie jak kołatanie serca, duszność, zmęczenie mogą znacząco obniżać jakość życia⁹⁵
Zaburzenia poznawcze i demencja – prawdopodobnie związane z mikrozatorowością mózgową lub zmniejszonym przepływem mózgowym⁹⁶
Zwiększona śmiertelność – migotanie przedsionków jest niezależnym czynnikiem ryzyka zgonu⁹⁷

Podsumowanie etiologii migotania przedsionków

Migotanie przedsionków jest złożoną arytmią o wieloczynnikowej etiologii. Najczęściej jest konsekwencją uszkodzenia struktury serca, jednak może występować również u osób bez widocznych nieprawidłowości kardiologicznych. Zrozumienie przyczyn migotania przedsionków jest kluczowe dla właściwego leczenia i zapobiegania powikłaniom.⁹⁸

Identyfikacja i modyfikacja odwracalnych czynników ryzyka, takich jak nadciśnienie tętnicze, nadczynność tarczycy, obturacyjny bezdech senny, nadmierne spożycie alkoholu czy otyłość, mogą pomóc w zapobieganiu wystąpieniu migotania przedsionków lub jego progresji.⁹⁹ Równie istotne jest wczesne rozpoznawanie i leczenie migotania przedsionków, ponieważ wcześniejsza interwencja znacząco poprawia rokowanie pacjentów.¹⁰⁰

Mimo że obecnie nie ma możliwości całkowitego wyleczenia migotania przedsionków, właściwe leczenie może skutecznie kontrolować objawy i zapobiegać powikłaniom, umożliwiając pacjentom prowadzenie normalnego życia.¹⁰¹ Postęp w zrozumieniu mechanizmów molekularnych leżących u podłoża elektropatologii migotania przedsionków stwarza nadzieję na rozwój innowacyjnych, spersonalizowanych metod diagnostycznych i terapeutycznych w przyszłości.¹⁰²

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Materiały źródłowe

#1 Atrial fibrillation – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350624
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm. […] Problems with the heart’s structure are the most common cause of atrial fibrillation (AFib). […] Heart diseases and health problems that can cause AFib include: a heart problem you’re born with, called a congenital heart defect; a problem with the heart’s natural pacemaker, called sick sinus syndrome; a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea; heart attack; heart valve disease; high blood pressure; lung diseases, including pneumonia; narrowed or blocked arteries, called coronary artery disease; thyroid disease such as an overactive thyroid; infections from viruses. […] Heart surgery or stress due to surgery or sickness may also cause AFib. […] Lifestyle habits that can trigger an AFib episode may include: drinking too much alcohol or caffeine; illegal drug use; smoking or using tobacco; taking medicines that contain stimulants, including cold and allergy medicines bought without a prescription.
#2 Atrial Fibrillation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526072/
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. It is the leading cardiac cause of stroke. Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include advanced age, high blood pressure, underlying heart and lung disease, congenital heart disease, and increased alcohol consumption. […] There are many causes of atrial fibrillation (AF), but it shares a strong association with other cardiovascular diseases. The commonly encountered causes include: Advanced age, Congenital heart disease, Underlying heart disease – valvular disease, coronary artery disease, structural heart disease, atrial ischemia, Increased alcohol consumption, Hypertension – systemic or pulmonary, Endocrine disorders – diabetes, pheochromocytoma, and hyperthyroidism, Genetic factors, Neurologic disorders – subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke, Hemodynamic stress – mitral or tricuspid valve disease, left ventricular dysfunction, pulmonary embolism, Obstructive sleep apnea, Inflammation – myocarditis and pericarditis. […] Any condition that leads to inflammation, stress, damage, or ischemia affecting the anatomy of the heart can result in the development of atrial fibrillation. In some cases, the cause is iatrogenic.
#3 What is Atrial Fibrillation? | American Heart Association
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. AFib is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm. […] About 12% to 20% of people who have strokes caused by blood clots or attributed to large or small vessel disease have this abnormal heart rhythm. The clot risk is why people with this condition may be prescribed blood thinners. […] AFib can double the risk of death and is linked with an estimated fivefold increased risk for stroke. Yet many people are unaware that AFib is a serious condition. […] You have not been diagnosed with AFib, but there may be abnormal structural or electrical problems in your heart that can lead to it. Your health care professional will closely watch to see if AFib develops. You may begin treatment early to slow or stop the progression.
#4 Atrial Fibrillation – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atrial-fibrillation/causes
Atrial fibrillation is most often caused by changes to the hearts tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. […] When the hearts tissue or electrical signaling is damaged, the regular pumping of the heart muscle can become fast and irregular. Most often, this type of damage to the heart is caused by other conditions such as high blood pressure and coronary heart disease. […] Factors such as aging, heart disease, infection, or genetics can affect heart tissue and keep the heart cells from contracting in rhythm. […] Changes in the hearts electrical signaling can be caused by differences in the structure of the heart, heartbeats that happen early or too often, typical heart rate adjustments, patches of heart tissue that conduct the signal quickly or slowly, or repeated stimulation of specific areas of the heart.
#5 About Atrial Fibrillation | Heart Disease | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/atrial-fibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. […] AFib occurs when the upper chambers and lower chambers are not coordinated, causing the heart to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. […] The risk for AFib increases with age. High blood pressure, the risk for which also increases with advancing age, accounts for about 1 in 5 cases of AFib. […] Risk factors for AFib include: Advancing age, High blood pressure, Obesity, European ancestry, Diabetes, Heart failure, Ischemic heart disease, Hyperthyroidism, Chronic kidney disease, Moderate to heavy alcohol use, Smoking, Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart. […] AFib increases a person’s risk for stroke. When standard stroke risk factors were accounted for, AFib was associated with an approximately fivefold increased risk of ischemic stroke. […] AFib causes about 1 in 7 strokes. […] More than 454,000 hospitalizations with AFib as the primary diagnosis happen each year in the US. The condition contributes to about 158,000 deaths each year.
#6 High blood pressure causes atrial fibrillation
https://www.escardio.org/The-ESC/Press-Office/Press-releases/High-blood-pressure-causes-atrial-fibrillation
The first evidence from genetic data that high blood pressure is causally associated with the most common heart rhythm disorder is published today in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, a journal of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). […] Establishing that elevated blood pressure causes atrial fibrillation provides further impetus for public health strategies aimed at improving blood pressure control in the general population and for individual efforts to keep levels in check. […] Elevated blood pressure was associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. Specifically, 1 mmHg rises in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and pulse pressure were associated with 1.8%, 2.6% and 1.4% relative increases in the risk of atrial fibrillation, respectively.
#7 Atrial fibrillation – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350624
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm. […] Problems with the heart’s structure are the most common cause of atrial fibrillation (AFib). […] Heart diseases and health problems that can cause AFib include: a heart problem you’re born with, called a congenital heart defect; a problem with the heart’s natural pacemaker, called sick sinus syndrome; a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea; heart attack; heart valve disease; high blood pressure; lung diseases, including pneumonia; narrowed or blocked arteries, called coronary artery disease; thyroid disease such as an overactive thyroid; infections from viruses. […] Heart surgery or stress due to surgery or sickness may also cause AFib. […] Lifestyle habits that can trigger an AFib episode may include: drinking too much alcohol or caffeine; illegal drug use; smoking or using tobacco; taking medicines that contain stimulants, including cold and allergy medicines bought without a prescription.
#8 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
Being obese puts a person at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Many cardiovascular conditions predispose people to develop atrial fibrillation. […] Someone with long-term high blood pressure is at risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Two main types of heart valve disease can put people at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Experts agree that CAD is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation. […] Just as CAD is a risk factor for developing atrial fibrillation, a heart attack is, too. […] Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a heart abnormality that has existed since birth. […] Heart failure is another heart condition that can lead to atrial fibrillation. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as people age, especially after age 65. […] If a family member has had atrial fibrillation, you have a higher risk of it, too.
#9 Atrial fibrillation – Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atrial_fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is linked to several forms of cardiovascular disease but may occur in otherwise normal hearts. Cardiovascular factors known to be associated with the development of AF include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, mitral valve stenosis (e.g., due to rheumatic heart disease or mitral valve prolapse), mitral regurgitation, left atrial enlargement, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, pericarditis, congenital heart disease, and previous heart surgery. […] Additionally, lung diseases (such as pneumonia, lung cancer, pulmonary embolism, and sarcoidosis) may play a role in certain people. Sepsis also increases the risk of developing new-onset atrial fibrillation. […] Disorders of breathing during sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), are also associated with AF. OSA, specifically, was found to be a very strong predictor of atrial fibrillation. Patients with OSA were shown to have an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation and a study done by Gami et al. demonstrated that increased nocturnal oxygen desaturation from OSA severity was correlated with higher incidences of atrial fibrillation.
#10 Atrial Fibrillation and Atrial Flutter – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/abnormal-heart-rhythms/atrial-fibrillation-and-atrial-flutter
Atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter may occur even when there is no other heart disorder. More often, these arrhythmias are caused by such conditions as […] Heart valve disorders and high blood pressure cause the atria to enlarge, making atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter more likely.
#11 Causes | SCAI – Seconds Count
https://www.secondscount.org/condition/atrial-fibrillation/causes
Its estimated that about 2.7 million people in the U.S. are living with atrial fibrillation (Afib). While the root cause of Afib is the misfiring of electrical signals in the heart, which causes an irregular heartbeat, certain risk factors heighten the chance that Afib will occur. […] Risk factors for Afib include the following: […] High blood pressure means the heart has to pump harder in order to circulate this blood. If you have Afib and high blood pressure, then youre at a greater risk for stroke. […] CAD is the cause of these blockages in the arteries. […] Heart valves that dont work properly can put your heart and other organs at risk. […] Sleep apnea can contribute to the misfiring of the electrical impulses in the heart and to episodes of Afib. […] Cardiomyopathy is a general term that refers to diseases of the heart muscle. In cardiomyopathy, the heart becomes enlarged, thick, or tough, meaning it doesnt beat as well and is less able to pump blood effectively, thus making it more prone to arrhythmias, including Afib.
#12 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
Being obese puts a person at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Many cardiovascular conditions predispose people to develop atrial fibrillation. […] Someone with long-term high blood pressure is at risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Two main types of heart valve disease can put people at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Experts agree that CAD is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation. […] Just as CAD is a risk factor for developing atrial fibrillation, a heart attack is, too. […] Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a heart abnormality that has existed since birth. […] Heart failure is another heart condition that can lead to atrial fibrillation. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as people age, especially after age 65. […] If a family member has had atrial fibrillation, you have a higher risk of it, too.
#13 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Symptoms & Treatment
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16765-atrial-fibrillation-afib
Atrial fibrillation can lead to serious complications like a stroke or heart failure. […] Changes to your hearts tissue and electrical system cause atrial fibrillation. […] Other forms of cardiovascular disease include coronary artery disease, valve disease and heart failure. […] Other medical conditions include high blood pressure, overweight, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease and obstructive sleep apnea. […] Certain gene changes are associated with AFib, according to the latest research. […] Its possible for AFib to begin after heart surgery you have for another reason. […] Having any of the medical conditions listed above raises your risk for AFib. […] Your risk for AFib goes up as you get older, and especially after age 65. […] Drinking more than the recommended limit, including binge drinking, raises your risk for AFib.
#14 Causes of Atrial Fibrillation – Atrial Fibrillation – Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter – Cardiology Teaching Package – Practice Learning – Division of Nursing – The University of Nottingham
https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/nursing/practice/resources/cardiology/fibrillation/causes.php
Causes of Atrial Fibrillation: The list below shows a number of conditions that can cause AF to occur. Any condition that causes an increase in pressure within the atria can cause AF, but it is mainly linked to enlargement of the left atria (or both) as a result of the increased atrial pressure. Prior to this (but connected), fibrosis and/or ischaemia can cause damage to the conduction tissue which then predisposes the patient to onset of arrhythmias. […] Idiopathic (cause unknown) […] Hypertension […] Mitral valve disease […] Cardiomyopathy […] Thyrotoxicosis […] Alcohol […] Sick sinus syndrome […] Cardiac surgery […] Autonomic […] Hypothyroidism […] Hyperkalaemia […] sepsis.
#15 Atrial Fibrillation: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/151066-overview
AF is strongly associated with the following risk factors: […] The exact mechanisms by which cardiovascular risk factors predispose to AF are not understood fully but are under intense investigation. […] Hemodynamic stress, atrial ischemia, inflammation, noncardiovascular respiratory causes, alcohol and drug use, endocrine disorders, neurologic disorders, genetic factors, and advancing age are all implicated in the etiology of atrial fibrillation. […] Increased intra-atrial pressure results in atrial electrical and structural remodeling and predisposes to AF. […] CAD infrequently leads directly to atrial ischemia and AF. More commonly, severe ventricular ischemia leads to increased intra-atrial pressure and AF. […] Myocarditis and pericarditis may be idiopathic or may occur in association with collagen vascular diseases; viral or bacterial infections; or cardiac, esophageal, or thoracic surgery.
#16 Atrial fibrillation – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350624
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm. […] Problems with the heart’s structure are the most common cause of atrial fibrillation (AFib). […] Heart diseases and health problems that can cause AFib include: a heart problem you’re born with, called a congenital heart defect; a problem with the heart’s natural pacemaker, called sick sinus syndrome; a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea; heart attack; heart valve disease; high blood pressure; lung diseases, including pneumonia; narrowed or blocked arteries, called coronary artery disease; thyroid disease such as an overactive thyroid; infections from viruses. […] Heart surgery or stress due to surgery or sickness may also cause AFib. […] Lifestyle habits that can trigger an AFib episode may include: drinking too much alcohol or caffeine; illegal drug use; smoking or using tobacco; taking medicines that contain stimulants, including cold and allergy medicines bought without a prescription.
#17 Atrial Fibrillation • LITFL • ECG Library Diagnosis
https://litfl.com/atrial-fibrillation-ecg-library/
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia. It is characterised by disorganised atrial electrical activity and contraction. […] The incidence and prevalence of AF is increasing. Lifetime risk over the age of 40 years is ~25%. […] Causes of Atrial Fibrillation include: Ischaemic heart disease, Hypertension, Valvular heart disease (esp. mitral stenosis / regurgitation), Acute infections, Electrolyte disturbance (hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia), Thyrotoxicosis, Drugs (e.g. sympathomimetics), Alcohol, Pulmonary embolus, Pericardial disease, Acid-base disturbance, Pre-excitation syndromes, Cardiomyopathies: dilated, hypertrophic, Phaeochromocytoma. […] A connection between Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS) or Sinus node dysfunction (SND) and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been recognized in the literature since the 1960s. There is some evidence to support AF inducing SND and some support for the notion that SND causes and promotes the development of AF.
#18 Atrial Fibrillation – Afib
https://www.umcvc.org/conditions-treatments/afib-atrial-fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, sometimes called „Afib”, is the most prevalent type of heart arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) and causes an irregular (and often rapid) heartbeat. […] Because of the sluggish movement of blood through the atria during atrial fibrillation, there is a tendency for blood clots to form in some patients. This can lead to complications such as stroke. […] Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include: Age older than 60 (although afib can affect a younger population as well), Being white and male, Sleep apnea, Heart failure, Heart valve disease, High blood pressure, Coronary artery disease and heart attack, Obesity, Family history of atrial fibrillation, Surgery on the heart, History of rheumatic fever, Infection, such as pneumonia or endocarditis, Lung disease, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Metabolic conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes, Use of alcohol and/or stimulants, Congenital heart disease and surgical repair of congenital heart disease.
#19 Atrial Fibrillation – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atrial-fibrillation/causes
Age, family history and genetics, lifestyle, heart disease or other medical conditions, race, and surgical history can all raise your risk of developing the structural and electrical issues that lead to atrial fibrillation. […] Many other medical conditions, including heart, lung, and sleep disorders, can raise your risk of atrial fibrillation. Common conditions that increase your risk include: Chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung problems, Diabetes, Heart failure, Heart valve diseases, High blood pressure, Hyperthyroidism, Overweight and obesity, Sick sinus syndrome, a conduction disorder, Sleep apnea and other sleep problems, Viral infections. […] Many medicines, including over-the-counter ones and stimulants, may also increase your risk, especially if you have other risk factors for atrial fibrillation.
#20 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
There are a number of medical conditions that can put someone at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Diabetes, which has greatly increased in the population, is linked to higher rates of atrial fibrillation. The glucose (blood sugar) imbalance that occurs with diabetes can directly affect the tissues of the heart. […] Each time you’re suddenly awakened by lack of oxygen from sleep apnea, it stresses the heart. It can also cause chemical changes inside the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland, in your neck, makes hormones. If the thyroid is too active, it increases the heart rate. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart problem in people with an overactive thyroid. […] Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm associated with infections. This is because infections can cause inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can cause changes in the heart.
#21 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
Heart disease: AFib is a problem with your heart. So, other heart issues raise your chances of having it, such as: Coronary artery disease, Heart valve disease, Rheumatic heart disease, Heart failure, Weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), Heart birth defects, Inflamed membrane or sac around the heart (pericarditis). […] Heart conditions such as these raise your chances for AFib because they create physical stress and stretch the tissues in the upper left chamber of the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism): It speeds up everything in your body, including your heart. […] Obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome: These conditions are not only linked to hypertension but may also make it harder for your heart to empty. […] Each time you are suddenly awakened due to a lack of oxygen, it puts mechanical stress on your heart and causes chemical changes.
#22 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
There are a number of medical conditions that can put someone at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Diabetes, which has greatly increased in the population, is linked to higher rates of atrial fibrillation. The glucose (blood sugar) imbalance that occurs with diabetes can directly affect the tissues of the heart. […] Each time you’re suddenly awakened by lack of oxygen from sleep apnea, it stresses the heart. It can also cause chemical changes inside the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland, in your neck, makes hormones. If the thyroid is too active, it increases the heart rate. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart problem in people with an overactive thyroid. […] Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm associated with infections. This is because infections can cause inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can cause changes in the heart.
#23 Atrial Fibrillation: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/151066-overview
Stimulants, alcohol, and cocaine can trigger AF. […] Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and pheochromocytoma have been associated with AF. […] Intracranial processes such as subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke can precipitate AF. […] A history of parental AF appears to confer increased likelihood of AF. […] AF is strongly age-dependent, affecting 4% of individuals older than 60 years and 8% of persons older than 80 years. […] In a 15-year prospective cohort study of 132,250 Japanese subjects, anemia and chronic kidney disease, alone and in combination, were associated with an increased risk of new-onset AF.
#24 Atrial fibrillation – Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atrial_fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is linked to several forms of cardiovascular disease but may occur in otherwise normal hearts. Cardiovascular factors known to be associated with the development of AF include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, mitral valve stenosis (e.g., due to rheumatic heart disease or mitral valve prolapse), mitral regurgitation, left atrial enlargement, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, pericarditis, congenital heart disease, and previous heart surgery. […] Additionally, lung diseases (such as pneumonia, lung cancer, pulmonary embolism, and sarcoidosis) may play a role in certain people. Sepsis also increases the risk of developing new-onset atrial fibrillation. […] Disorders of breathing during sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), are also associated with AF. OSA, specifically, was found to be a very strong predictor of atrial fibrillation. Patients with OSA were shown to have an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation and a study done by Gami et al. demonstrated that increased nocturnal oxygen desaturation from OSA severity was correlated with higher incidences of atrial fibrillation.
#25 Atrial Fibrillation – What Causes Afib? – StopAfib.org
https://www.stopafib.org/learn-about-afib/what-is-afib/what-causes-afib/
Afib can also be found in those with clogged arteries (atherosclerosis) or chest pain (angina), and having diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid problems may also increase risk. […] In addition, atrial fibrillation can also happen to otherwise healthy people, especially when they are stressed or fatigued, have had too much caffeine or alcohol, have smoked, or have exercised too much. […] Another known risk factor is having too much or too little of some minerals in your body, such as calcium, magnesium, or potassium. […] As you age, your risk of atrial fibrillation increases. […] Finally, obstructive sleep apnea also appears to be a big risk factor, and is on the forefront of recent research. […] About half of afib patients have obstructive sleep apnea, a stronger correlation than between afib and any other risk factors.
#26 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#27 Atrial Fibrillation Causes
https://mobile.fpnotebook.com/CV/EKG/AtrlFbrltnCs.htm
Atrial Fibrillation Causes, Atrial Fibrillation Associated Conditions, Atrial Fibrillation Etiology, Atrial Fibrillation Risk Factors […] Hypertension and its control is the most important risk factor for Atrial Fibrillation […] Chronic cardiac conditions (especially when accompanied by Left Ventricular Hypertrophy) […] Ischemic Heart Disease (Myocardial Infarction) […] No direct association with Atrial Fibrillation […] Valvular heart disease (e.g. Rheumatic Heart Disease with Mitral Stenosis) […] Obesity […] Risk increased 1.5 fold over non-obese patients […] Alcohol Abuse […] May be the cause of 66% of cases under age 65 years old […] Binge weekend drinking may result in paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (holiday heart syndrome) […] Hyperthyroidism […] Hypothyroidism […] Pheochromocytoma […] Electrolyte abnormalities […] Associated with higher doses (esp. 4 grams/day, but increased risk linearly at 1 g/day)
#28 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
There are a number of medical conditions that can put someone at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Diabetes, which has greatly increased in the population, is linked to higher rates of atrial fibrillation. The glucose (blood sugar) imbalance that occurs with diabetes can directly affect the tissues of the heart. […] Each time you’re suddenly awakened by lack of oxygen from sleep apnea, it stresses the heart. It can also cause chemical changes inside the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland, in your neck, makes hormones. If the thyroid is too active, it increases the heart rate. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart problem in people with an overactive thyroid. […] Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm associated with infections. This is because infections can cause inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can cause changes in the heart.
#29 Atrial fibrillation – Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atrial_fibrillation
Major stress biomarkers (including cortisol and heat shock proteins) indicate that stress plays a significant role in causing atrial fibrillation. […] Atrial fibrillation is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory markers and clotting factors. Mendelian randomization indicates a causal relationship of inflammation leading to atrial fibrillation.
#30 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common problem with your heartbeat’s rate or rhythm. […] The basic cause of AFib is disorganized signals that cause the atria of your heart to squeeze very fast and out of sync. […] Damage to your heart’s electrical system can cause AFib. This damage often results from other conditions that affect the heart. […] Researchers have found that low potassium levels in your body are linked to an increased risk of AFib. […] Dehydration is a common trigger for an AFib episode, but it isn’t the cause of your AFib. […] Things that most often lead to atrial fibrillation include: Age: Your odds of having AFib go up as you get older, especially after you’re 60. […] AFib is a hereditary condition, which means a part of the cause is in the genes you get from your parents at birth.
#31 Atrial Fibrillation • LITFL • ECG Library Diagnosis
https://litfl.com/atrial-fibrillation-ecg-library/
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia. It is characterised by disorganised atrial electrical activity and contraction. […] The incidence and prevalence of AF is increasing. Lifetime risk over the age of 40 years is ~25%. […] Causes of Atrial Fibrillation include: Ischaemic heart disease, Hypertension, Valvular heart disease (esp. mitral stenosis / regurgitation), Acute infections, Electrolyte disturbance (hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia), Thyrotoxicosis, Drugs (e.g. sympathomimetics), Alcohol, Pulmonary embolus, Pericardial disease, Acid-base disturbance, Pre-excitation syndromes, Cardiomyopathies: dilated, hypertrophic, Phaeochromocytoma. […] A connection between Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS) or Sinus node dysfunction (SND) and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been recognized in the literature since the 1960s. There is some evidence to support AF inducing SND and some support for the notion that SND causes and promotes the development of AF.
#32 Atrial Fibrillation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526072/
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. It is the leading cardiac cause of stroke. Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include advanced age, high blood pressure, underlying heart and lung disease, congenital heart disease, and increased alcohol consumption. […] There are many causes of atrial fibrillation (AF), but it shares a strong association with other cardiovascular diseases. The commonly encountered causes include: Advanced age, Congenital heart disease, Underlying heart disease – valvular disease, coronary artery disease, structural heart disease, atrial ischemia, Increased alcohol consumption, Hypertension – systemic or pulmonary, Endocrine disorders – diabetes, pheochromocytoma, and hyperthyroidism, Genetic factors, Neurologic disorders – subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke, Hemodynamic stress – mitral or tricuspid valve disease, left ventricular dysfunction, pulmonary embolism, Obstructive sleep apnea, Inflammation – myocarditis and pericarditis. […] Any condition that leads to inflammation, stress, damage, or ischemia affecting the anatomy of the heart can result in the development of atrial fibrillation. In some cases, the cause is iatrogenic.
#33 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
The resulting inflammation could cause changes to your heart. […] Research suggests that people who take high doses of steroids — perhaps for asthma or other conditions — may be more likely to get AFib. […] Sometimes, doctors can’t find an obvious reason why someone gets AFib. […] Atrial fibrillation also called AFib is a problem with the way your heart’s chambers send signals that control its beat. […] An AFib episode can be triggered by dehydration, lack of sleep, stress, and stimulants such as caffeine.
#34 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Symptoms & Treatment
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16765-atrial-fibrillation-afib
Atrial fibrillation can lead to serious complications like a stroke or heart failure. […] Changes to your hearts tissue and electrical system cause atrial fibrillation. […] Other forms of cardiovascular disease include coronary artery disease, valve disease and heart failure. […] Other medical conditions include high blood pressure, overweight, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease and obstructive sleep apnea. […] Certain gene changes are associated with AFib, according to the latest research. […] Its possible for AFib to begin after heart surgery you have for another reason. […] Having any of the medical conditions listed above raises your risk for AFib. […] Your risk for AFib goes up as you get older, and especially after age 65. […] Drinking more than the recommended limit, including binge drinking, raises your risk for AFib.
#35 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#36 What doctors wish patients knew about atrial fibrillation | American Medical Association
https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-atrial-fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition that disrupts this delicate balance, leaving millions of adults in the U.S. at risk for complications such as stroke and heart failure. […] While AFib can affect anyone, it is more common among people of European descent. But Black people who have AFib are more likely to have serious complications such as stroke or heart failure, according to the American Heart Association. […] Age is a major risk factor for atrial fibrillation, but so is high blood pressure, which causes one in five cases of AFib. […] Additionally, diabetes and other heart problems and structural problems such as blockages in your heart arteries or heart failure are also risk factors. […] Beyond those, obesity and sleep apnea are also risk factors of AFib. […] There is a genetic component of atrial fibrillation in families.
#37 Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/atrial-fibrillation/atrial-fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of arrhythmia that causes the heart to beat erratically. […] Unusual electrical signaling in the heart causes AFib. Sometimes, the heartâs pacemaker cells send impulses out of sequence. This disrupts the regular heartbeat. […] Many conditions can cause this type of rhythm disruption, including: cardiomyopathy, chronic and uncontrolled high blood pressure, coronary artery disease due to atherosclerosis, heart damage from rheumatic fever in childhood or heart surgery, heart failure, heart valve disease, pulmonary embolism, stress on physiological processes, including older age, chronic lung disease, an overactive thyroid, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. […] Known mutations in specific genes can cause familial, or hereditary, AFib. However, this accounts for a small percentage of AFib cases. Certain variations in several other genes influence the risk of developing AFib. […] One of the most common risk factors for AFib is increasing age. High blood pressure goes directly along with that, as the risk of high blood pressure increases with age as well.
#38 Atrial fibrillation | Heart and Stroke Foundation
https://www.heartandstroke.ca/heart-disease/conditions/atrial-fibrillation
In many cases, the cause of atrial fibrillation is not known. […] If you develop Afib before the age of 60 without any structural heart disease, you may have idiopathic (or lone) atrial fibrillation. Researchers have identified a handful of genes that predispose families to idiopathic Afib. It is also possible for young people without Afib in their family to develop the disease.
#39 Atrial fibrillation – Knowledge @ AMBOSS
https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/atrial-fibrillation/
Approx. 15% of individuals who develop Afib have none of the above mentioned risk factors (idiopathic/lone Afib). […] The exact mechanisms of Afib are not well understood. Suggested mechanisms include volume overload, hemodynamic stress, atrial hypertrophy and/or dilatation, atrial ischemia, inflammation of the atrial myocardium, and altered ion conduction by the atrial myocardium. […] Atrial remodeling occurs with electrophysiological changes in the atria within a few hours of Afib onset, and if Afib persists, atrial fibrosis and dilatation occur within a few months.
#40 About Atrial Fibrillation | Heart Disease | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/atrial-fibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. […] AFib occurs when the upper chambers and lower chambers are not coordinated, causing the heart to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. […] The risk for AFib increases with age. High blood pressure, the risk for which also increases with advancing age, accounts for about 1 in 5 cases of AFib. […] Risk factors for AFib include: Advancing age, High blood pressure, Obesity, European ancestry, Diabetes, Heart failure, Ischemic heart disease, Hyperthyroidism, Chronic kidney disease, Moderate to heavy alcohol use, Smoking, Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart. […] AFib increases a person’s risk for stroke. When standard stroke risk factors were accounted for, AFib was associated with an approximately fivefold increased risk of ischemic stroke. […] AFib causes about 1 in 7 strokes. […] More than 454,000 hospitalizations with AFib as the primary diagnosis happen each year in the US. The condition contributes to about 158,000 deaths each year.
#41 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#42 Atrial Fibrillation: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/151066-overview
Stimulants, alcohol, and cocaine can trigger AF. […] Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and pheochromocytoma have been associated with AF. […] Intracranial processes such as subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke can precipitate AF. […] A history of parental AF appears to confer increased likelihood of AF. […] AF is strongly age-dependent, affecting 4% of individuals older than 60 years and 8% of persons older than 80 years. […] In a 15-year prospective cohort study of 132,250 Japanese subjects, anemia and chronic kidney disease, alone and in combination, were associated with an increased risk of new-onset AF.
#43 Atrial Fibrillation • LITFL • ECG Library Diagnosis
https://litfl.com/atrial-fibrillation-ecg-library/
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia. It is characterised by disorganised atrial electrical activity and contraction. […] The incidence and prevalence of AF is increasing. Lifetime risk over the age of 40 years is ~25%. […] Causes of Atrial Fibrillation include: Ischaemic heart disease, Hypertension, Valvular heart disease (esp. mitral stenosis / regurgitation), Acute infections, Electrolyte disturbance (hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia), Thyrotoxicosis, Drugs (e.g. sympathomimetics), Alcohol, Pulmonary embolus, Pericardial disease, Acid-base disturbance, Pre-excitation syndromes, Cardiomyopathies: dilated, hypertrophic, Phaeochromocytoma. […] A connection between Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS) or Sinus node dysfunction (SND) and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been recognized in the literature since the 1960s. There is some evidence to support AF inducing SND and some support for the notion that SND causes and promotes the development of AF.
#44 Atrial fibrillation: Symptoms, causes, treatment, and more
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323621
A-fib is the most common clinical arrhythmia worldwide. Estimates suggest that it affects up to 3% of the Western population aged 20 years or older. […] The risk of A-fib increases with age, but it can sometimes occur among young people. […] Changes in the electrical signals in the heart cause A-fib. It can happen to anyone at any age, but it is more common among older people. Other risk factors include: […] People with underlying heart conditions have a higher risk of A-fib. These conditions include heart valve disease, heart failure, coronary artery disease, and heart attack. […] Although regularly consuming large amounts of alcohol puts people at the highest risk, even modest amounts can be a trigger for some individuals. […] People with a family history of A-fib may be more likely to experience the condition themselves. […] Some long-term medical conditions including thyroid problems, asthma, diabetes, and obesity may add to the risk. […] Having atrial fibrillation (A-fib) can put a person at an increased risk for stroke and heart attack.
#45 Atrial fibrillation – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20350624
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm. […] Problems with the heart’s structure are the most common cause of atrial fibrillation (AFib). […] Heart diseases and health problems that can cause AFib include: a heart problem you’re born with, called a congenital heart defect; a problem with the heart’s natural pacemaker, called sick sinus syndrome; a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea; heart attack; heart valve disease; high blood pressure; lung diseases, including pneumonia; narrowed or blocked arteries, called coronary artery disease; thyroid disease such as an overactive thyroid; infections from viruses. […] Heart surgery or stress due to surgery or sickness may also cause AFib. […] Lifestyle habits that can trigger an AFib episode may include: drinking too much alcohol or caffeine; illegal drug use; smoking or using tobacco; taking medicines that contain stimulants, including cold and allergy medicines bought without a prescription.
#46 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
Emotional stress, including panic disorders, can also put someone at higher risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Alcohol consumption and especially binge drinking raises a person’s risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Caffeine increases your heart rate, which can trigger atrial fibrillation. […] Scientists have found that smoking increases the risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Stimulants, for example many diet pills, cause the heart to race. The same is true for street drugs like cocaine or methamphetamines (meth). These drugs can either trigger atrial fibrillation or worsen it.
#47 Atrial Fibrillation Causes
https://mobile.fpnotebook.com/CV/EKG/AtrlFbrltnCs.htm
Atrial Fibrillation Causes, Atrial Fibrillation Associated Conditions, Atrial Fibrillation Etiology, Atrial Fibrillation Risk Factors […] Hypertension and its control is the most important risk factor for Atrial Fibrillation […] Chronic cardiac conditions (especially when accompanied by Left Ventricular Hypertrophy) […] Ischemic Heart Disease (Myocardial Infarction) […] No direct association with Atrial Fibrillation […] Valvular heart disease (e.g. Rheumatic Heart Disease with Mitral Stenosis) […] Obesity […] Risk increased 1.5 fold over non-obese patients […] Alcohol Abuse […] May be the cause of 66% of cases under age 65 years old […] Binge weekend drinking may result in paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (holiday heart syndrome) […] Hyperthyroidism […] Hypothyroidism […] Pheochromocytoma […] Electrolyte abnormalities […] Associated with higher doses (esp. 4 grams/day, but increased risk linearly at 1 g/day)
#48 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
Emotional stress, including panic disorders, can also put someone at higher risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Alcohol consumption and especially binge drinking raises a person’s risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Caffeine increases your heart rate, which can trigger atrial fibrillation. […] Scientists have found that smoking increases the risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Stimulants, for example many diet pills, cause the heart to race. The same is true for street drugs like cocaine or methamphetamines (meth). These drugs can either trigger atrial fibrillation or worsen it.
#49 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
Emotional stress, including panic disorders, can also put someone at higher risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Alcohol consumption and especially binge drinking raises a person’s risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Caffeine increases your heart rate, which can trigger atrial fibrillation. […] Scientists have found that smoking increases the risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Stimulants, for example many diet pills, cause the heart to race. The same is true for street drugs like cocaine or methamphetamines (meth). These drugs can either trigger atrial fibrillation or worsen it.
#50 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#51 What Is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib or AF)? Symptoms and More
https://www.healthline.com/health/living-with-atrial-fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation happens when these chambers dont work together as they should because of faulty electrical signaling. […] The cause of atrial fibrillation isnt always known. One major factor is stress, including physical and mental or emotional. Stress makes abnormal electrical activity in the heart more likely to occur. […] Conditions that can cause damage to the heart and lead to atrial fibrillation include: high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, heart surgery, congenital heart defects, pericarditis, taking certain medications, thyroid disease. […] Substances and medications may also have an effect, including: cold medications, nasal spray decongestants, caffeine, alcohol, smoking. […] An overall healthy lifestyle may decrease your risk of AFib, but not all causes are preventable. Its important to tell a doctor about your full health history so they can better pinpoint the causes of your AFib and are better able to treat it.
#52 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Symptoms & Treatment
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16765-atrial-fibrillation-afib
Serious illnesses that require hospitalization raise your risk of developing AFib. […] Youre more likely to develop AFib if you dont get enough movement each day. […] Youre more likely to develop AFib if you do extreme exercise or high-intensity endurance training for at least three hours a day over many years.
#53 Afib causes and risk factors – AFIP foundation
https://afiponline.org/af-library/afib-causes/
Little is known about the exact causes of atrial fibrillation however several factors can increase the likelihood of triggering atrial fibrillation, such as stress. […] Atrial fibrillation is more often observed in elderly people. Mechanistic studies found that cell damage may play a role in atrial fibrillation due to aging, but how exactly is this linked? […] Epidemiological research shows that there are an increasing amount of people with diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle which have been linked to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Many patients indicate that stress plays a major role in atrial fibrillation. […] Atrial fibrillation may occur in some patients with a congenital heart disease (estimated 5%), which is termed congenital atrial fibrillation. […] In approximately 15% of atrial fibrillation patients, there is no discernable reason for the defect. […] Long-term intense exercise enlarges your heart muscle, causing small adjustments in the structure of the atrial heart cells. These can disrupt the electrical signaling and can lead to atrial fibrillation.
#54 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common problem with your heartbeat’s rate or rhythm. […] The basic cause of AFib is disorganized signals that cause the atria of your heart to squeeze very fast and out of sync. […] Damage to your heart’s electrical system can cause AFib. This damage often results from other conditions that affect the heart. […] Researchers have found that low potassium levels in your body are linked to an increased risk of AFib. […] Dehydration is a common trigger for an AFib episode, but it isn’t the cause of your AFib. […] Things that most often lead to atrial fibrillation include: Age: Your odds of having AFib go up as you get older, especially after you’re 60. […] AFib is a hereditary condition, which means a part of the cause is in the genes you get from your parents at birth.
#55 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
The resulting inflammation could cause changes to your heart. […] Research suggests that people who take high doses of steroids — perhaps for asthma or other conditions — may be more likely to get AFib. […] Sometimes, doctors can’t find an obvious reason why someone gets AFib. […] Atrial fibrillation also called AFib is a problem with the way your heart’s chambers send signals that control its beat. […] An AFib episode can be triggered by dehydration, lack of sleep, stress, and stimulants such as caffeine.
#56 Atrial Fibrillation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526072/
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. It is the leading cardiac cause of stroke. Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include advanced age, high blood pressure, underlying heart and lung disease, congenital heart disease, and increased alcohol consumption. […] There are many causes of atrial fibrillation (AF), but it shares a strong association with other cardiovascular diseases. The commonly encountered causes include: Advanced age, Congenital heart disease, Underlying heart disease – valvular disease, coronary artery disease, structural heart disease, atrial ischemia, Increased alcohol consumption, Hypertension – systemic or pulmonary, Endocrine disorders – diabetes, pheochromocytoma, and hyperthyroidism, Genetic factors, Neurologic disorders – subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke, Hemodynamic stress – mitral or tricuspid valve disease, left ventricular dysfunction, pulmonary embolism, Obstructive sleep apnea, Inflammation – myocarditis and pericarditis. […] Any condition that leads to inflammation, stress, damage, or ischemia affecting the anatomy of the heart can result in the development of atrial fibrillation. In some cases, the cause is iatrogenic.
#57 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#58 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#59 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
The resulting inflammation could cause changes to your heart. […] Research suggests that people who take high doses of steroids — perhaps for asthma or other conditions — may be more likely to get AFib. […] Sometimes, doctors can’t find an obvious reason why someone gets AFib. […] Atrial fibrillation also called AFib is a problem with the way your heart’s chambers send signals that control its beat. […] An AFib episode can be triggered by dehydration, lack of sleep, stress, and stimulants such as caffeine.
#60 Mechanisms of atrial fibrillation – UpToDate
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/mechanisms-of-atrial-fibrillation
The precise mechanisms by which age and the other conditions listed above increase the propensity for development of AF are understood poorly. However, these conditions may impact the triggers for AF, which commonly arise in the pulmonary veins or the substrate for maintenance of AF, which broadly relates to atrial size and the extent of fibrosis. Some of the factors that may play a role in the mechanisms of AF include autonomic tone, inflammation, atrial pressure and wall stress, and genetics.
#61 Atrial fibrillation – Knowledge @ AMBOSS
https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/atrial-fibrillation/
Approx. 15% of individuals who develop Afib have none of the above mentioned risk factors (idiopathic/lone Afib). […] The exact mechanisms of Afib are not well understood. Suggested mechanisms include volume overload, hemodynamic stress, atrial hypertrophy and/or dilatation, atrial ischemia, inflammation of the atrial myocardium, and altered ion conduction by the atrial myocardium. […] Atrial remodeling occurs with electrophysiological changes in the atria within a few hours of Afib onset, and if Afib persists, atrial fibrosis and dilatation occur within a few months.
#62 What Causes AFib?
https://www.healthline.com/health/atrial-fibrillation/afib-causes
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm. It happens when the upper chambers of your heart, called the atria, quiver, causing your heart to beat irregularly. […] Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that may contribute to other health conditions and can increase your chances of having a stroke. […] While the exact cause of AFib is unclear, researchers have identified that AFib is most often triggered by abnormal tissue near the pulmonary veins. […] AFib becomes more likely as people age, and its more common in people who have certain heart conditions, obesity, high blood pressure, and other health conditions. […] Many people develop AFib as part of the typical aging process. Some health conditions can increase your risk of developing it. Advanced age and high blood pressure are among the most common risk factors associated with AFib.
#63 Atrial Fibrillation – What Causes Afib? – StopAfib.org
https://www.stopafib.org/learn-about-afib/what-is-afib/what-causes-afib/
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation? […] We know that the erratic electrical impulses that cause atrial fibrillation often originate in the pulmonary veins, at least in most paroxysmal (intermittent) atrial fibrillation, and that the impulses that cause persistent and longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation are believed to come from other areas as well, but what actually causes afib? Though researchers are investigating the cause of atrial fibrillation, as of now it is largely unknown except that some recent studies have shown a genetic component as afib often runs in families. […] The risk factors for atrial fibrillation are as numerous as the symptoms. […] One of the most important risk factors is existing heart disease. Atrial fibrillation is common among those with coronary heart disease, valve disease, or an inflamed heart muscle or lining, or who have had a heart attack, congestive heart failure, or recent heart surgery.
#64 Atrial fibrillation – Knowledge @ AMBOSS
https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/atrial-fibrillation/
Approx. 15% of individuals who develop Afib have none of the above mentioned risk factors (idiopathic/lone Afib). […] The exact mechanisms of Afib are not well understood. Suggested mechanisms include volume overload, hemodynamic stress, atrial hypertrophy and/or dilatation, atrial ischemia, inflammation of the atrial myocardium, and altered ion conduction by the atrial myocardium. […] Atrial remodeling occurs with electrophysiological changes in the atria within a few hours of Afib onset, and if Afib persists, atrial fibrosis and dilatation occur within a few months.
#65 Diagnosis and Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation | AAFP
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2016/0915/p442.html
Micro-reentry and enhanced automaticity in one or more atrial circuits are the most common triggers for atrial fibrillation. […] Atrial fibrillation is associated with a fivefold increased risk of stroke, and it is the most common arrhythmia. It worsens heart failure and increases mortality in patients with myocardial infarction, and is an independent risk factor for death. […] The prevalence of atrial fibrillation increases with age, and the associated cost of medical care is high.
#66 Mechanisms of atrial fibrillation – UpToDate
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/mechanisms-of-atrial-fibrillation
The precise mechanisms by which age and the other conditions listed above increase the propensity for development of AF are understood poorly. However, these conditions may impact the triggers for AF, which commonly arise in the pulmonary veins or the substrate for maintenance of AF, which broadly relates to atrial size and the extent of fibrosis. Some of the factors that may play a role in the mechanisms of AF include autonomic tone, inflammation, atrial pressure and wall stress, and genetics.
#67 Atrial fibrillation – Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atrial_fibrillation
Major stress biomarkers (including cortisol and heat shock proteins) indicate that stress plays a significant role in causing atrial fibrillation. […] Atrial fibrillation is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory markers and clotting factors. Mendelian randomization indicates a causal relationship of inflammation leading to atrial fibrillation.
#68 Atrial fibrillation | Nature Reviews Disease Primers
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-022-00347-9
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia despite substantial efforts to understand the pathophysiology of the condition and develop improved treatments. […] Identifying the underlying causative mechanisms of AF in individual patients is difficult and the efficacy of current therapies is suboptimal. […] Research has revealed that defects in specific molecular pathways underlie AF pathogenesis, resulting in electrical conduction disorders that drive AF. […] The severity of this so-called electropathology correlates with the stage of AF disease progression and determines the response to AF treatment. […] Therefore, unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying electropathology is expected to fuel the development of innovative personalized diagnostic tools and mechanism-based therapies. […] Currently, various treatment modalities targeting AF-related electropathology, including lifestyle changes, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical therapy, substrate-based ablative therapy, and neuromodulation, are available to maintain sinus rhythm and might offer a novel holistic strategy to treat AF.
#69 Atrial fibrillation | Heart and Stroke Foundation
https://www.heartandstroke.ca/heart-disease/conditions/atrial-fibrillation
In many cases, the cause of atrial fibrillation is not known. […] If you develop Afib before the age of 60 without any structural heart disease, you may have idiopathic (or lone) atrial fibrillation. Researchers have identified a handful of genes that predispose families to idiopathic Afib. It is also possible for young people without Afib in their family to develop the disease.
#70 Atrial Fibrillation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526072/
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. It is the leading cardiac cause of stroke. Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include advanced age, high blood pressure, underlying heart and lung disease, congenital heart disease, and increased alcohol consumption. […] There are many causes of atrial fibrillation (AF), but it shares a strong association with other cardiovascular diseases. The commonly encountered causes include: Advanced age, Congenital heart disease, Underlying heart disease – valvular disease, coronary artery disease, structural heart disease, atrial ischemia, Increased alcohol consumption, Hypertension – systemic or pulmonary, Endocrine disorders – diabetes, pheochromocytoma, and hyperthyroidism, Genetic factors, Neurologic disorders – subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke, Hemodynamic stress – mitral or tricuspid valve disease, left ventricular dysfunction, pulmonary embolism, Obstructive sleep apnea, Inflammation – myocarditis and pericarditis. […] Any condition that leads to inflammation, stress, damage, or ischemia affecting the anatomy of the heart can result in the development of atrial fibrillation. In some cases, the cause is iatrogenic.
#71 Atrial fibrillation | Heart and Stroke Foundation
https://www.heartandstroke.ca/heart-disease/conditions/atrial-fibrillation
In many cases, the cause of atrial fibrillation is not known. […] If you develop Afib before the age of 60 without any structural heart disease, you may have idiopathic (or lone) atrial fibrillation. Researchers have identified a handful of genes that predispose families to idiopathic Afib. It is also possible for young people without Afib in their family to develop the disease.
#72 Afib causes and risk factors – AFIP foundation
https://afiponline.org/af-library/afib-causes/
Little is known about the exact causes of atrial fibrillation however several factors can increase the likelihood of triggering atrial fibrillation, such as stress. […] Atrial fibrillation is more often observed in elderly people. Mechanistic studies found that cell damage may play a role in atrial fibrillation due to aging, but how exactly is this linked? […] Epidemiological research shows that there are an increasing amount of people with diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle which have been linked to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. […] Many patients indicate that stress plays a major role in atrial fibrillation. […] Atrial fibrillation may occur in some patients with a congenital heart disease (estimated 5%), which is termed congenital atrial fibrillation. […] In approximately 15% of atrial fibrillation patients, there is no discernable reason for the defect. […] Long-term intense exercise enlarges your heart muscle, causing small adjustments in the structure of the atrial heart cells. These can disrupt the electrical signaling and can lead to atrial fibrillation.
#73 Why Atrial Fibrillation Matters | American Heart Association
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/why-atrial-fibrillation-af-or-afib-matters
Atrial fibrillation, also called AFib or AF, can feel weird and scary. But an âAFib attackâ usually doesnât have harmful outcomes by itself. One of the real dangers is the increased risk for stroke. Even when you donât feel symptoms, AFib can still increase your risk for stroke and related heart problems. […] Sometimes, the cause of AFib is unknown. Other times, it is the result of damage to the heart’s electrical system from other conditions, including: Long-term, uncontrolled high blood pressure, Coronary artery disease, Complications after surgery. AFib has been reported as the most common arrhythmia after some heart surgeries. […] AFib can lead to other medical problems, including: Stroke, Heart failure, Other heart rhythm or rate problems, Poor blood flow to the body. […] Heart failure means the heart isnât pumping enough blood to meet the bodyâs needs. AFib can lead to heart failure in part because the heart is beating so fast or unevenly that it never properly fills up with blood to pump out to the body.
#74 Atrial Fibrillation: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/151066-overview
Stimulants, alcohol, and cocaine can trigger AF. […] Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and pheochromocytoma have been associated with AF. […] Intracranial processes such as subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke can precipitate AF. […] A history of parental AF appears to confer increased likelihood of AF. […] AF is strongly age-dependent, affecting 4% of individuals older than 60 years and 8% of persons older than 80 years. […] In a 15-year prospective cohort study of 132,250 Japanese subjects, anemia and chronic kidney disease, alone and in combination, were associated with an increased risk of new-onset AF.
#75 Atrial Fibrillation | AFib | MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/atrialfibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is one of the most common types of arrhythmias. […] AFib is most often caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or the electrical signaling that helps the heartbeat. These changes can happen due to different conditions and factors, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, infections, and aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. […] The risk of atrial fibrillation increases as you get older, especially when you are over age 65. […] AFib can run in families. So can heart disease, which raises your risk of AFib. […] Your risk is higher if you drink a lot of alcohol, use certain illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines, or smoke. […] Having certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, heart valve diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, COPD and other lung diseases, and sleep apnea. […] AFib is more common in people with European ancestry. […] You may be at risk of atrial fibrillation in the early days and weeks after surgery on your heart, lungs, or esophagus.
#76 AFib (Atrial Fibrillation) Treatment, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Causes
https://www.emedicinehealth.com/atrial_fibrillation/article_em.htm
Most commonly, atrial fibrillation occurs as a result of some other cardiac condition (secondary atrial fibrillation). […] Advancing age: The older a person is above age 40, the higher the risk. […] Atrial fibrillation frequently occurs after cardiothoracic surgery or procedures, but often resolves in a few days. […] For many people with infrequent and brief episodes of atrial fibrillation, the episodes are brought on by several triggers. […] Common triggers include alcohol and caffeine in susceptible individuals.
#77 New-onset atrial fibrillation – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice US
https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/3
New-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) is a new or first detectable episode of a chaotic and irregular atrial arrhythmia. Prevalence increases progressively with age. […] AF causes significant morbidity and mortality including palpitations, dyspnea, angina, dizziness or syncope, and features of congestive heart failure, tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy, stroke, and death. […] Risk factors include increasing age, hypertension, orthostatic hypotension, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, valvular and structural heart disease, coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndromes, other atrial arrhythmias, sepsis and critical illness, cardiac or thoracic surgery, obesity, hyperthyroidism, hypoxic pulmonary conditions, alcohol consumption, smoking, inflammatory disorders, excessive exercise, height, cancer and chemotherapy.
#78 About Atrial Fibrillation | Heart Disease | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/atrial-fibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. […] AFib occurs when the upper chambers and lower chambers are not coordinated, causing the heart to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. […] The risk for AFib increases with age. High blood pressure, the risk for which also increases with advancing age, accounts for about 1 in 5 cases of AFib. […] Risk factors for AFib include: Advancing age, High blood pressure, Obesity, European ancestry, Diabetes, Heart failure, Ischemic heart disease, Hyperthyroidism, Chronic kidney disease, Moderate to heavy alcohol use, Smoking, Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart. […] AFib increases a person’s risk for stroke. When standard stroke risk factors were accounted for, AFib was associated with an approximately fivefold increased risk of ischemic stroke. […] AFib causes about 1 in 7 strokes. […] More than 454,000 hospitalizations with AFib as the primary diagnosis happen each year in the US. The condition contributes to about 158,000 deaths each year.
#79 About Atrial Fibrillation | Heart Disease | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/atrial-fibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. […] AFib occurs when the upper chambers and lower chambers are not coordinated, causing the heart to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. […] The risk for AFib increases with age. High blood pressure, the risk for which also increases with advancing age, accounts for about 1 in 5 cases of AFib. […] Risk factors for AFib include: Advancing age, High blood pressure, Obesity, European ancestry, Diabetes, Heart failure, Ischemic heart disease, Hyperthyroidism, Chronic kidney disease, Moderate to heavy alcohol use, Smoking, Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart. […] AFib increases a person’s risk for stroke. When standard stroke risk factors were accounted for, AFib was associated with an approximately fivefold increased risk of ischemic stroke. […] AFib causes about 1 in 7 strokes. […] More than 454,000 hospitalizations with AFib as the primary diagnosis happen each year in the US. The condition contributes to about 158,000 deaths each year.
#80 About Atrial Fibrillation | Heart Disease | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/atrial-fibrillation.html
Atrial fibrillation, often called AFib or AF, is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia. […] AFib occurs when the upper chambers and lower chambers are not coordinated, causing the heart to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly. […] The risk for AFib increases with age. High blood pressure, the risk for which also increases with advancing age, accounts for about 1 in 5 cases of AFib. […] Risk factors for AFib include: Advancing age, High blood pressure, Obesity, European ancestry, Diabetes, Heart failure, Ischemic heart disease, Hyperthyroidism, Chronic kidney disease, Moderate to heavy alcohol use, Smoking, Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart. […] AFib increases a person’s risk for stroke. When standard stroke risk factors were accounted for, AFib was associated with an approximately fivefold increased risk of ischemic stroke. […] AFib causes about 1 in 7 strokes. […] More than 454,000 hospitalizations with AFib as the primary diagnosis happen each year in the US. The condition contributes to about 158,000 deaths each year.
#81 Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms, ECG, Causes, Treatment, Definition, Meaning, Pathophysiology, Signs — EZmed
https://www.ezmedlearning.com/blog/atrial-fibrillation-symptoms-ecg-causes-treatment
For example, systemic hypertension, chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and metabolic syndrome can lead to AFib and clinical diagnostic clues may be present. […] Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke by five-fold. […] The most common location for a left atrial blood clot to occur in atrial fibrillation is the left atrial appendage (LAA). […] The complications of AFib include: […] The presence of comorbidities and risk factors worsen the prognosis in AFib. […] The odds of developing a stroke is 5-fold higher in AFib than in normal individuals.
#82 Atrial Fibrillation > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/atrial-fibrillation
In atrial fibrillation, however, electrical signals are generated from multiple areas of the atria, rather than solely from the SA node. These abnormal electrical impulses cause the atria to twitch and quiver rapidly and with a disordered, irregular rhythm. […] Blood can pool in the atria, increasing the risk of blood clot formation and stroke. […] The left atrial appendage is a small sac in the muscular wall of the left atrium (the left upper chamber) and the source of the blood clots that cause the vast majority of strokes in AFib.
#83 What doctors wish patients knew about atrial fibrillation | American Medical Association
https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-atrial-fibrillation
Some of them happen due to random genetic variations or risk factors. […] AFib increases the risk of stroke, and therefore, if AFib goes undetected for a long time, a stroke may be your first symptom. […] When a stroke occurs in patients with AFib, its typically much more severe than strokes caused by blockages in the neck or brain arteries. […] If we intervene sooner in patients with AFib, their outcomes improve significantly. […] There is no cure for AFib at the moment. […] However, after a first-time ablation procedure, about 70% of patients will remain in normal rhythm for at least the next five years or so. […] Treating sleep apnea may not take away atrial fibrillation completely, but it might actually help with the progression of atrial fibrillation. […] Anything that increases your heart rate, including caffeine from coffee or energy drinks, can trigger atrial fibrillation in patients with AFib.
#84 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
There are a number of medical conditions that can put someone at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Diabetes, which has greatly increased in the population, is linked to higher rates of atrial fibrillation. The glucose (blood sugar) imbalance that occurs with diabetes can directly affect the tissues of the heart. […] Each time you’re suddenly awakened by lack of oxygen from sleep apnea, it stresses the heart. It can also cause chemical changes inside the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland, in your neck, makes hormones. If the thyroid is too active, it increases the heart rate. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart problem in people with an overactive thyroid. […] Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm associated with infections. This is because infections can cause inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can cause changes in the heart.
#85 Triggers, Risk Factors, Causes | Atrial Fibrillation | AtriCure
https://www.atricure.com/patients-caregivers/atrial-fibrillation/symptoms-risk-factors-and-triggers-atrial-fibrillation/triggers-risk-factors-causes
There are a number of medical conditions that can put someone at higher risk for atrial fibrillation. […] Diabetes, which has greatly increased in the population, is linked to higher rates of atrial fibrillation. The glucose (blood sugar) imbalance that occurs with diabetes can directly affect the tissues of the heart. […] Each time you’re suddenly awakened by lack of oxygen from sleep apnea, it stresses the heart. It can also cause chemical changes inside the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland, in your neck, makes hormones. If the thyroid is too active, it increases the heart rate. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart problem in people with an overactive thyroid. […] Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm associated with infections. This is because infections can cause inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can cause changes in the heart.
#86 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Causes, Risk factors and Triggers
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/causes-risks-triggers-afib
Heart disease: AFib is a problem with your heart. So, other heart issues raise your chances of having it, such as: Coronary artery disease, Heart valve disease, Rheumatic heart disease, Heart failure, Weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), Heart birth defects, Inflamed membrane or sac around the heart (pericarditis). […] Heart conditions such as these raise your chances for AFib because they create physical stress and stretch the tissues in the upper left chamber of the heart. […] An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism): It speeds up everything in your body, including your heart. […] Obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome: These conditions are not only linked to hypertension but may also make it harder for your heart to empty. […] Each time you are suddenly awakened due to a lack of oxygen, it puts mechanical stress on your heart and causes chemical changes.
#87 Atrial fibrillation | NHS inform
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cardiovascular-disease/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia). […] Atrial fibrillation is not usually life threatening in itself. Many people live normal healthy lives with this condition. But, in some cases treatment will be needed or recommended. […] For some people, atrial fibrillation could create blood clots in the heart that may lead to a stroke. The risk of this is influenced by other factors, including: age (being older), whether you have high blood pressure, heart failure, diabetes, a previous history of blood clots. […] Anticoagulant medicines prevent harmful blood clots from forming. They are sometimes called blood thinners, but they do not actually thin the blood. Instead they increase the time it takes for your blood to form a clot. […] People with atrial fibrillation who are at risk of having a stroke may be prescribed anticoagulant medication. This is to reduce the risk of blood clots forming within the heart which can increase the risk of stroke. […] The kind of treatment you will need for atrial fibrillation will depend on: the type of atrial fibrillation, symptoms, any underlying cause like an overactive thyroid, age, overall health.
#88 What is Atrial Fibrillation (AF)? – Heart Foundation NZ
https://www.heartfoundation.org.nz/your-heart/heart-conditions/atrial-fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm condition that can cause stroke and heart failure. […] The causes of atrial fibrillation are not always clear. However, there are a number of known risk factors that increase your risk of developing AF. These risk factors include: […] AF can affect adults at any age, but it is more common as people get older, particularly over 65 years. […] Atrial fibrillation is a progressive disease, so it is not uncommon for people with paroxysmal AF to develop persistent or permanent AF over time. […] AF can sometimes occur in people with no other known conditions. This is called lone atrial fibrillation. […] People who have paroxysmal AF may find there are certain things that will trigger an AF episode. Common AF triggers include: […] The exact link between stress and AF is yet to be determined. Some people with AF believe that stress is a common trigger for episodes of AF.
#89 Atrial fibrillation – Knowledge @ AMBOSS
https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/atrial-fibrillation/
Approx. 15% of individuals who develop Afib have none of the above mentioned risk factors (idiopathic/lone Afib). […] The exact mechanisms of Afib are not well understood. Suggested mechanisms include volume overload, hemodynamic stress, atrial hypertrophy and/or dilatation, atrial ischemia, inflammation of the atrial myocardium, and altered ion conduction by the atrial myocardium. […] Atrial remodeling occurs with electrophysiological changes in the atria within a few hours of Afib onset, and if Afib persists, atrial fibrosis and dilatation occur within a few months.
#90 What is Atrial Fibrillation? | American Heart Association
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
You have been diagnosed with AFib. You and your health care professional will discuss how severe your condition is and the best treatment for you. Treatment could include medications to control the heartâs rhythm or rate, surgery or managing other health conditions. […] Itâs important to recognize the different stages of AFib. Understanding your stage can help you prevent AFib, catch it early or know how far your condition has progressed.
#91 Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms and Treatment
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23446-persistent-atrial-fibrillation
Persistent atrial fibrillation (PersAfib or AF) is the most common type of abnormal heartbeat. […] The cause of persistent atrial fibrillation is an abnormal signal that interferes with the hearts electrical system. […] Persistent atrial fibrillation often develops in people who have paroxysmal Afib. […] Risk factors may also involve genetic changes (mutations) in families. […] Other factors include heart damage or defects linked to: Cardiomyopathy, Congenital (at birth) heart disease, Coronary artery disease, Heart failure, Heart surgery (post-surgery), Heart valve disease, High blood pressure (hypertension), Inflammation of the heart (pericarditis). […] Lung conditions that can lead to persistent Afib include: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Pulmonary hypertension.
#92 What is Atrial Fibrillation (AF)? – Heart Foundation NZ
https://www.heartfoundation.org.nz/your-heart/heart-conditions/atrial-fibrillation
Anxiety can worsen your symptoms of AF. […] Some people find that being physically active can trigger symptoms of AF. […] AF can lead to further health problems (complications). The two most serious complications resulting from AF are stroke and heart failure. […] People with atrial fibrillation are five times more likely to have a stroke than people without atrial fibrillation. […] Very fast or uncontrolled atrial fibrillation can weaken your heart over time, eventually causing heart failure. […] Atrial fibrillation can’t always be prevented, however you can reduce your risk by:
#93 What is Atrial Fibrillation? | American Heart Association
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. AFib is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm. […] About 12% to 20% of people who have strokes caused by blood clots or attributed to large or small vessel disease have this abnormal heart rhythm. The clot risk is why people with this condition may be prescribed blood thinners. […] AFib can double the risk of death and is linked with an estimated fivefold increased risk for stroke. Yet many people are unaware that AFib is a serious condition. […] You have not been diagnosed with AFib, but there may be abnormal structural or electrical problems in your heart that can lead to it. Your health care professional will closely watch to see if AFib develops. You may begin treatment early to slow or stop the progression.
#94 Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/a-fib-overview
Whether AFib is valvular or nonvalvular determines the type of medicine your doctor will prescribe to help lower your odds of having a stroke. […] Acute onset atrial fibrillation […] Causes include age, cardiovascular disease, alcohol abuse, diabetes, and lung disease. […] Postoperative atrial fibrillation […] It boosts your odds of heart failure and stroke, a brain injury that results from a blood clot blocking blood flow in your brain. […] AFib can cause serious health problems. Your doctor has treatments to put your heart back into a normal rhythm and prevent complications. […] Untreated AFib and valve disease each increase your risk for blood clots and stroke. Having the two conditions together raises your risk even more. […] AFib makes the ventricles beat faster to push blood out of the heart. Beating too fast for a long time can make the heart muscle too weak to pump enough blood to your body. This is called cardiomyopathy.
#95 Atrial Fibrillation: What You Need To Know | Blog | Loyola Medicine
https://www.loyolamedicine.org/newsroom/blog-articles/afib-treatable-heart-condition-can-cause-stroke
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib for short, is a fast heart rhythm that originates in the top chambers of the heart. […] There are several identified risk factors for AFib. Obesity, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, thyroid abnormalities and excessive use of alcohol are some of them. […] Although there is no definite way to prevent atrial fibrillation, the risk can be lowered with proper control of blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea, and by losing weight, exercising, lowering stress and avoiding high-risk behaviors, such as excessive alcohol use. […] AFib is associated with risk of stroke. The risk is not the same for every patient and can be calculated based on ones risk factors. […] There are three key areas of treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib): Stroke prevention, Heart rate control, Rhythm control. […] No, atrial fibrillation (AFib) cannot be cured but can be controlled much like other illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
#96 Atrial Fibrillation Causes and Complications
https://www.everydayhealth.com/atrial-fibrillation/guide/causes/
Afib can lead to a number of serious complications. […] Potential complications of atrial fibrillation include: […] Blood Clots Afib may cause your heart not to pump blood adequately, so that blood pools and forms clots in your heart. […] Blood clots can break off and travel to different areas of your body, potentially blocking blood flow and causing serious tissue damage. […] Stroke A stroke happens when a blot clot breaks off and travels to your head, blocking off blood flow to your brain. […] In some people with afib, the condition has no symptoms, and a stroke is the first sign that you have it. […] If you have afib your risk of a stroke is higher if youre older or if youre a woman. […] Heart Attack A heart attack happens when blood flow to your heart is blocked, usually by a clot that breaks off from another area of your body.
#97 Diagnosis and Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation | AAFP
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2016/0915/p442.html
Micro-reentry and enhanced automaticity in one or more atrial circuits are the most common triggers for atrial fibrillation. […] Atrial fibrillation is associated with a fivefold increased risk of stroke, and it is the most common arrhythmia. It worsens heart failure and increases mortality in patients with myocardial infarction, and is an independent risk factor for death. […] The prevalence of atrial fibrillation increases with age, and the associated cost of medical care is high.
#98 Atrial fibrillation | Nature Reviews Disease Primers
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-022-00347-9
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia despite substantial efforts to understand the pathophysiology of the condition and develop improved treatments. […] Identifying the underlying causative mechanisms of AF in individual patients is difficult and the efficacy of current therapies is suboptimal. […] Research has revealed that defects in specific molecular pathways underlie AF pathogenesis, resulting in electrical conduction disorders that drive AF. […] The severity of this so-called electropathology correlates with the stage of AF disease progression and determines the response to AF treatment. […] Therefore, unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying electropathology is expected to fuel the development of innovative personalized diagnostic tools and mechanism-based therapies. […] Currently, various treatment modalities targeting AF-related electropathology, including lifestyle changes, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical therapy, substrate-based ablative therapy, and neuromodulation, are available to maintain sinus rhythm and might offer a novel holistic strategy to treat AF.
#99 Mechanisms of atrial fibrillation – UpToDate
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/mechanisms-of-atrial-fibrillation
There are many mechanisms responsible for and contributory to development of atrial fibrillation (AF). The chance of developing AF is tied closely to age; AF is rare before age 50. In addition to age, there are many types of cardiac and medical conditions that are also closely linked to AF. These include hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, obesity, and sleep-apnea syndrome. It is well established that high levels of alcohol can increase the probability of developing AF, and that hyperthyroidism can cause AF. Evidence for caffeine and energy drinks, while suspected to be contributory, is questionable. Furthermore, while exercise can be protective against atrial fibrillation, endurance athletics may be a cause for atrial fibrillation. It is also well established that AF is more common in individuals who have a first-degree relative who developed AF at a young age. There is also a variety of acute conditions that can initiate AF such as cardiac surgery, pulmonary embolus, and inflammatory lung conditions.
#100 What doctors wish patients knew about atrial fibrillation | American Medical Association
https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-atrial-fibrillation
Some of them happen due to random genetic variations or risk factors. […] AFib increases the risk of stroke, and therefore, if AFib goes undetected for a long time, a stroke may be your first symptom. […] When a stroke occurs in patients with AFib, its typically much more severe than strokes caused by blockages in the neck or brain arteries. […] If we intervene sooner in patients with AFib, their outcomes improve significantly. […] There is no cure for AFib at the moment. […] However, after a first-time ablation procedure, about 70% of patients will remain in normal rhythm for at least the next five years or so. […] Treating sleep apnea may not take away atrial fibrillation completely, but it might actually help with the progression of atrial fibrillation. […] Anything that increases your heart rate, including caffeine from coffee or energy drinks, can trigger atrial fibrillation in patients with AFib.
#101 Atrial Fibrillation: What You Need To Know | Blog | Loyola Medicine
https://www.loyolamedicine.org/newsroom/blog-articles/afib-treatable-heart-condition-can-cause-stroke
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib for short, is a fast heart rhythm that originates in the top chambers of the heart. […] There are several identified risk factors for AFib. Obesity, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, thyroid abnormalities and excessive use of alcohol are some of them. […] Although there is no definite way to prevent atrial fibrillation, the risk can be lowered with proper control of blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea, and by losing weight, exercising, lowering stress and avoiding high-risk behaviors, such as excessive alcohol use. […] AFib is associated with risk of stroke. The risk is not the same for every patient and can be calculated based on ones risk factors. […] There are three key areas of treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib): Stroke prevention, Heart rate control, Rhythm control. […] No, atrial fibrillation (AFib) cannot be cured but can be controlled much like other illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
#102 Atrial fibrillation | Nature Reviews Disease Primers
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-022-00347-9
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia despite substantial efforts to understand the pathophysiology of the condition and develop improved treatments. […] Identifying the underlying causative mechanisms of AF in individual patients is difficult and the efficacy of current therapies is suboptimal. […] Research has revealed that defects in specific molecular pathways underlie AF pathogenesis, resulting in electrical conduction disorders that drive AF. […] The severity of this so-called electropathology correlates with the stage of AF disease progression and determines the response to AF treatment. […] Therefore, unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying electropathology is expected to fuel the development of innovative personalized diagnostic tools and mechanism-based therapies. […] Currently, various treatment modalities targeting AF-related electropathology, including lifestyle changes, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical therapy, substrate-based ablative therapy, and neuromodulation, are available to maintain sinus rhythm and might offer a novel holistic strategy to treat AF.