Understanding Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is characterized by irregular heart rhythms resulting from electrical and structural changes in the heart's atria. The condition can arise from several factors, including ectopic atrial premature beats and autonomic dysfunction, particularly in cases like sleep apnea. Studies show that its incidence is rising, driven by an aging population and improved survival rates for cardiovascular diseases. Risk factors such as age, obesity, hypertension, and lifestyle choices like smoking and alcohol consumption significantly increase the likelihood of developing this arrhythmia.