can hypertension cause afib

Hypertension is a potential cause of atrial fibrillation, commonly referred to as AFib. AFib is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia characterized by the rapid and irregular beating of the atria. Persistently high blood pressure, known as hypertension, is recognized as a risk factor for developing AFib.

Sustained elevated blood pressure forces the heart to work harder to circulate blood, which can result in structural and functional changes to the heart. These alterations may include cardiac hypertrophy and dilation, which can disrupt the heart's normal rhythm and raise the likelihood of AFib. Moreover, hypertension can also indirectly impact cardiac rhythm by contributing to arteriosclerosis and increasing blood viscosity.

Managing hypertension is crucial for the prevention of AFib. This involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, abstaining from smoking, and moderating alcohol intake, in addition to the judicious use of antihypertensive medications as directed by a healthcare provider. Should symptoms such as palpitations or shortness of breath arise, it is imperative to seek medical attention without delay to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of AFib.