AFib, or atrial fibrillation, is most often caused by changes to the heart's tissue or disruptions in the electrical signals that control the heartbeat.
These changes can stem from various underlying conditions and contributing factors. Here's a breakdown:
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Heart Conditions:
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Over time, high blood pressure can thicken and stiffen the heart muscle, making it more prone to AFib.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the heart, potentially damaging heart tissue and disrupting electrical signals.
- Heart Valve Problems: Malfunctioning heart valves can strain the heart and lead to structural changes that trigger AFib.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Heart defects present at birth can alter the heart's structure and electrical pathways.
- Heart Failure: A weakened heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, increasing the risk of AFib.
- Previous Heart Surgery: Scar tissue from prior surgery can interfere with the heart's electrical system.
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Other Medical Conditions:
- Thyroid Problems: An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can speed up the heart rate and increase the risk of AFib.
- Chronic Lung Disease: Conditions like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) can strain the heart.
- Sleep Apnea: Interrupted breathing during sleep can lead to heart problems and AFib.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of heart problems.
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Lifestyle Factors:
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Binge drinking or chronic heavy alcohol use can trigger AFib.
- Caffeine: High doses of caffeine can sometimes trigger AFib in susceptible individuals.
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease.
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Age: The risk of developing AFib increases with age, as the heart naturally undergoes changes over time.
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Infections: Viral infections can sometimes inflame the heart and trigger AFib.
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Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing AFib.
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Idiopathic AFib: In some cases, the cause of AFib cannot be identified. This is known as idiopathic AFib.
In summary, AFib arises primarily from structural or electrical abnormalities in the heart, often related to pre-existing heart conditions, other medical issues, lifestyle choices, and aging. However, sometimes the underlying cause remains unknown.
