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As with many health conditions, the prevalence of A-Fib increases with age. According to the Mayo Clinic, fewer than one in every 100 people in their 50's has A-Fib, but about 10 out of every 100 in their 80's experience it. The most common cause of atrial fibrillation is longstanding, uncontrolled high blood pressure and heart disease. Additionally, atrial fibrillation is the most common complication after heart surgery.
An entire spectrum of seemingly unrelated conditions can send the atria into "overdrive." Other contributing factors include:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Heart valve disease
- Coronary artery disease
- Cardiomyopathy with weakened heart muscle
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Chronic lung disease
- Emphysema
- Asthma
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Cigarette or stimulant use (such as caffeine)
- Periods of extreme stress or fatigue can trigger episodes of A-Fib
*Information from the American Stroke Association
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