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AFib Medical Abbreviation

Author: Analgesia logo

Last Updated on March 19, 2025 by Analgesia team

What is The Main Cause of Atrial Fibrillation

AFib is the medical abbreviation for atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia, or abnormal heartbeat. It occurs when the heart’s upper chambers beat irregularly and very quickly, often more than 400 times per minute. 

Atrial fibrillation can cause serious medical complications, including:

AFib Medical Abbreviation

Symptoms of atrial fibrillation include:
  • Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded
  • Racing heart (palpitations)
  • Tiredness or weakness
  • Chest discomfort
  • Difficulty exercising

Causes of AFib

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is most commonly caused by damage to the heart’s tissue or electrical signalling. This damage can be due to several conditions and factors, including: 

    • High blood pressureAlso known as hypertension 
    • Heart diseaseSuch as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, or heart failure 
    • Congenital heart defectsHeart problems you’re born with 
    • InfectionsSuch as pneumonia or other viral infections 
    • Sleep apneaA sleep disorder that can stress the heart and deprive the body of oxygen
    • AgeingAs people age, their risk of AFib increases 

Other risk factors for AFib include: 

  • Diabetes
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Having had heart, lung, or oesophagus surgery
  • Family history
  • Lung disease
  • Sick sinus syndrome

Some common triggers for AFib include: 

  • Stimulants such as caffeine and cigarettes
  • Alcohol
  • Stress and worry
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Poor sleep
Sometimes the cause of AFib is unknown.

Some lifestyle choices that may help prevent atrial fibrillation include:

  • Controlling high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes
  • Not smoking or using tobacco
  • Eating a low-salt, low-saturated fat diet
  • Exercising at least 30 minutes a day
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Reducing and managing stress 

AFib can be occasional or persistent. It’s often asymptomatic and undiagnosed.

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