FAQs
What is the single main cause of atrial fibrillation?
The primary cause of atrial fibrillation is a combination of structural and electrical changes in the heart, most commonly triggered by high blood pressure, heart valve disease, or prior heart attacks.
Can high blood pressure alone cause atrial fibrillation?
Yes, uncontrolled high blood pressure stretches and scars the left atrium, disrupting electrical signals and accounting for about 20% of new AFib cases.
How does aging contribute to atrial fibrillation?
As people age, atrial tissue stiffens and becomes fibrotic, increasing AFib risk; over 70% of people older than 75 may develop some form of AFib.
Are there non-heart causes that can trigger AFib?
Yes, factors such as anxiety, sleep apnea, hyperthyroidism, certain medications, and lifestyle habits like alcohol bingeing can trigger AFib episodes in susceptible individuals.
Is atrial fibrillation curable?
While AFib is mostly managed rather than cured, catheter ablation can lead to long-term remission in selected patients with intermittent forms of AFib.
