Causes and Triggers of AF

Causes of atrial fibrillation (AF) continue to be investigated by cardiac specialists and researchers.

In 1998 an important study in France showed that more than 90% of the abnormal electrical impulses causing paroxysmal atrial fibrillation begin in the pulmonary veins.16 The left atrium is the embryologic origin of the pulmonary veins. The pulmonary veins are formed by an out-pouching of the atrial wall towards the lungs. When the veins form, they bring with them cardiac myocytes that independently fire off electrical impulses. When these impulses are fired into the atrium at a vulnerable time, atrial fibrillation occurs.26, 78

As atrial fibrillation progresses, it causes changes within the heart (substrate modifications) that create additional sources of abnormal electrical activity beyond the pulmonary veins. 18, 19 Additional research suggests these impulses are activated by nerve-cell bundles called ganglionated plexi (GP).17

While abnormal electrical impulses are the culprit behind atrial fibrillation, there are many causes and triggers that facilitate the occurrence of these impulses. A trigger is something that you do which results in an episode of atrial fibrillation. You can control your triggers by knowing what they are and avoiding them. A cause of atrial fibrillation typically results from a pre-existing condition that makes you more susceptible to the disease. It provides a tangible reason for having atrial fibrillation.

Potential Causes for AF

• Obesity
• Atherosclerosis and Angina
• Chronic Lung Disease
• Emphysema
• Asthma Congestive Heart Failure
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea
• Mitral Valve Prolapse

Potential Triggers for AF

• Caffeine (coffee, chocolate, soda, etc.)
• Alcohol Stimulant Drugs (nicotine, ephedrine, amphetamines, etc.)

What triggers atrial fibrillation can vary from person to person. To discover what your triggers may be, write down what you eat and drink and how much you have. List the medications you take, and don’t forget the non-prescription pills, vitamins and herbs you bought at the store. By keeping track of these things, you may begin to see patterns. Avoiding your trigger(s) may then help you reduce your risk of atrial fibrillation.20

Doctors continue to discover more about irregular heartbeats and cardiac arrhythmias through research and clinical trials. What they learn may offer new hope to you and your loved ones.

For more information about preventing atrial fibrillation, consult your physician.

Take the time to educate yourself about all of the current treatment options for atrial fibrillation. Write down any questions you have and then speak to your doctor about your options and concerns. Your doctor can then help you decide on the best treatment for you, based on the type of atrial fibrillation you have as well as your overall health and medical history.

If you are a patient or physician and are interested in learning more about current clinical studies, please call our Clinical Trial Hotline at (800) 401-3506 or visit clinicaltrials.gov.