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Causes of Atrial Fibrillation
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Atrial fibrillation develops as a result of an alteration or damage to the atria. This damage usually produces scar tissue (fibrosis) on the atria or limits their ability to function uniformly and adequately, which consequently causes them to expand and contract in a disorganised manner.
Risk factors associated with Atrial Fibrillation
Age. Risk increases progressively as we get older, particularly from the age of 40 onwards.
Cardiovascular factors. High blood pressure (arterial hypertension) is the most common risk factor.
Cardiovascular diseases. These increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Among the most frequent contributing factors are previous heart attacks or angina, poorly functioning heart valves or heart failure (a weak heart).
Changes in life habits. Obesity, obstructive sleep apnea or very high intensity physical exercise (professional cyclists, marathon runners) are increasingly more important risk factors.
Isolated health problems. Sometimes a significant but temporary health problem can trigger an episode of atrial fibrillation. For instance, after undergoing heart surgery, since the heart is weakened.
Hereditary factors. People with a close relative with atrial fibrillation have a higher risk of developing it. This means there are some genes that enhance the chances of developing atrial fibrillation if other risk factors are present, such as high blood pressure, although genetic factors are rarely the only cause of atrial fibrillation.
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Substantiated information by:
Alba Cano Valls
Nurse
Atrial Fibrillation Unit
Eduard Guasch Casany
Josep Lluís Mont Girbau
Cardiologist
Atrial Fibrillation Unit
Manel Castellà Pericas
Cardiac Surgeon
Cardiovascular Surgery Head of Department
Published: 27 November 2018
Updated: 6 June 2025
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