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: Causes and Risk Factors
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia). It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat chaotically and irregularly, leading to inefficient blood flow. Let's explore the causes and risk factors of AF in a structured way.
Main Causes of Atrial Fibrillation
1. Heart-Related Conditions:
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Increased pressure makes the heart work harder, leading to atrial enlargement and AF.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Blocked arteries reduce blood flow, increasing AF risk.
- Heart Failure: Weak heart muscles can cause electrical instability in the atria.
- Heart Valve Diseases: Especially mitral valve problems creating turbulence in blood flow.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Structural heart issues present from birth.
2. Non-Cardiac Causes
- Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid hormone levels can overstimulate the heart.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels contribute to heart damage and arrhythmias.
- Chronic Lung Diseases: Conditions like COPD can lead to increased heart strain.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Interrupted breathing at night affects heart rhythm.
- Excessive Alcohol Use: Known as 'Holiday Heart Syndrome,' binge drinking can trigger AF.
- Stimulants & Drug Use: Including caffeine, nicotine, and illicit drugs.
3. Lifestyle & Genetic Factors
- Obesity: Increases risk due to strain on the heart.
- Aging: AF becomes more common after the age of 60.
- Genetics: Family history plays a role in susceptibility.
- Excessive Stress and Poor Sleep: Can trigger abnormal heart rhythms.
Conclusion
Atrial fibrillation has multiple causes, ranging from cardiovascular diseases to lifestyle factors. Identifying and managing these risk factors is essential for preventing or controlling AF.
Source recommendations
1. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines on 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://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
2. American Heart Association (AHA) / American College of Cardiology (ACC) / Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation Management
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000665
- https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources/2023-accahaaccphrs-guideline-diagnosis-and-management-patients-atrial-fibrillation
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2023/11/29/18/58/New-ACC-AHA-Guideline-Focuses-on-Diagnosis-Management-of-AFib-gl-af
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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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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.