2. High Blood Pressure: An Insidious Contributor to Afib
Imagine a pressure that’s constantly exerting force within you, and you’re completely unaware of it. This situation is the reality for many women living with high blood pressure or hypertension. Often known as the “silent killer,” hypertension is a leading cause of Afib in women. But how does high blood pressure contribute to Afib?
One of the main reasons is the strain that high blood pressure puts on the heart. When your blood pressure is high, it means your heart has to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this added workload can cause the heart to enlarge or stiffen. These changes in the heart’s structure can lead to abnormalities in the heart’s electrical system, contributing to Afib.
In addition, high blood pressure can cause changes in the blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis, where the arteries become narrow and hardened. This condition can result in a reduced blood supply to the heart, further increasing the risk of Afib.
Despite its insidious nature, hypertension is a modifiable risk factor. With regular monitoring and management, the risks associated with high blood pressure, including Afib, can be significantly reduced. Simple lifestyle modifications like reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol can go a long way in controlling blood pressure levels. (2)
