Can atrial fibrillation cause sudden death?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with information regarding the relationship between atrial fibrillation (AFib) and the risk of sudden death. Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and rapid beating of the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. While AFib itself does not directly cause sudden death, it can increase the risk of certain complications that may lead to sudden death, particularly if left untreated or poorly managed. The primary concern with AFib is the potential for the formation of blood clots within the atria due to the chaotic movement of the heart muscle. If a clot forms and then travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke, which can be fatal. Additionally, AFib can lead to a decrease in the heart's pumping efficiency, which may result in heart failure. Heart failure increases the risk of sudden cardiac death, although the direct link between AFib and sudden death is not as strong as the link between AFib and stroke. It's also important to note that AFib can be associated with other heart conditions that increase the risk of sudden death, such as coronary artery disease or valvular heart disease. Furthermore, the presence of other risk factors, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, can exacerbate the risk. In summary, while atrial fibrillation itself is not a direct cause of sudden death, it can be a contributing factor due to the increased risk of stroke and heart failure, as well as its potential to coexist with other heart conditions that are more directly linked to sudden death.

Atrial fibrillation can lead to serious complications, some far more frequent than sudden cardiac death �� for instance, it is a leading cause of stroke and heart disease. But in most cases, if you are properly treated and closely monitored by your doctor, afib is not a life-threatening condition, Nguyen says.