What is often the primary cause of atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is frequently associated with underlying heart disease, which includes conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, and heart failure. These conditions can lead to structural and electrical changes in the heart that promote the development of atrial fibrillation. For instance, when the heart is affected by conditions such as hypertension or ischemic heart disease, the atria can become dilated or undergo fibrosis, making them more susceptible to chaotic electrical activity that characterizes atrial fibrillation.

While age-related degeneration, stress and anxiety, and excessive physical activity can contribute to or trigger atrial fibrillation in some individuals, they are not considered primary causes. Age can indeed be a risk factor, as older adults often have a higher prevalence of underlying heart conditions. Similarly, stress and excessive physical exertion may act as triggers for episodes of atrial fibrillation rather than being root causes. The presence of an underlying heart condition is typically the most significant factor leading to the onset of this arrhythmia.