About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Atrial Fibrillation: Understanding the Main Causes
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the electrical signals in the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) become disorganized, causing an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. Understanding the main causes of atrial fibrillation is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Main Causes of Atrial Fibrillation
AF can arise due to various medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and underlying heart diseases. Here are the main causes:
1. Heart Conditions
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): The most common risk factor, as high blood pressure puts additional strain on the heart.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Blockage or narrowing of heart arteries can damage the atria.
- Heart Failure: Weakening of the heart can lead to atrial stretching and fibrillation.
- Valvular Heart Disease: Conditions like mitral stenosis or regurgitation can overwork the atria, increasing AF risk.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Structural heart issues from birth may contribute to AF.
2. Medical Conditions and Systemic Factors
- Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid): Excess thyroid hormones can increase heart rate and trigger AF.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Patients with kidney dysfunction have a higher risk.
- Sleep Apnea: Interrupted breathing during sleep creates heart stress and electrical instability.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels contribute to structural heart changes over time.
- Obesity: Increased body weight is associated with inflammation and atrial enlargement.
3. Lifestyle & External Factors
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can trigger AF episodes ("holiday heart syndrome").
- Smoking: Nicotine and harmful chemicals increase heart stress and cardiovascular risk.
- Stimulants: Caffeine, illicit drugs, and certain medications can provoke irregular heart rhythms.
- Excessive Exercise or Physical Stress: Intense athletic activity has been linked to AF in some individuals.
4. Aging and Genetic Factors
- Advancing Age: The likelihood of developing AF increases with age, especially after 65.
- Family History: Genetics play a role, and having a close relative with AF increases risk.
Conclusion
Atrial fibrillation results from a variety of factors, often in combination. Identifying and managing underlying conditions, making lifestyle modifications, and regular cardiovascular check-ups can help prevent or control this condition. If you experience irregular heartbeats, it is essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Source recommendations
1. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
2. American Heart Association (AHA)/American College of Cardiology (ACC)/Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources/2023-accahaaccphrs-guideline-diagnosis-and-management-patients-atrial-fibrillation
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
- https://www.heartrhythmjournal.com/article/S1547-5271(19)30037-2/fulltext
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24682348/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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