Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a problem with the Reference heart's electrical system.

When something goes wrong with this system, it's usually because of other health problems that are causing wear and tear on the heart or making it hard for the heart to do its job. Sometimes it's because of lifestyle habits—such as smoking or heavy drinking—that are hard on the heart.

Problems that affect the heart's structure

Atrial fibrillation is often caused by a health problem that directly affects the heart, including:

• Reference High blood pressure Opens New Window.
• Reference Coronary artery disease Opens New Window.
• Reference Heart attack Opens New Window.
• Reference Heart valve disease Opens New Window.
• Reference Cardiomyopathy.

Other health problems

Atrial fibrillation can also be caused by other health problems, including:

• Reference Hyperthyroidism Opens New Window.
• Lung disease, such as Reference COPD Opens New Window.
• Having heart surgery.
• Taking certain prescription medicines, such as albuterol or theophylline.

Atrial fibrillation caused by a condition that is treatable, such as pneumonia or hyperthyroidism, often goes away when that condition is treated.

In some cases, doctors cannot find the cause of atrial fibrillation. These cases are called lone atrial fibrillation. Lone atrial fibrillation occurs more often in people younger than 65. It often stops on its own. But it may need to be treated.

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