Many of the risk factors that relate to atrial fibrillation (AF) are associated with other cardiac conditions (e.g., coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease and high blood pressure). Practices that can help prevent those conditions may also help prevent AF. These include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a heart-healthy diet and exercising regularly.

Researchers are studying cases of atrial fibrillation that develop after heart surgery. Some of these cases are related to inflammation, so researchers are studying the use of anti-inflammatory drugs after surgery to decrease the likelihood of atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation may also be caused by periods of heavy drinking. Holiday heart syndrome is a condition in which individuals develop atrial fibrillation after heavy alcohol use. If the person is young and has no other underlying heart disease, including alcoholic heart disease, the heart rhythm will usually return to normal in a few hours. Treatment is usually unnecessary in these people. Those who do not have underlying coronary heart disease may be at increased risk for a heart attack once the rapid and irregular alcohol-induced rhythm develops. Most people experiencing holiday heart syndrome have no real knowledge as to whether they have underlying heart disease. Therefore, anyone experiencing this abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) should seek immediate medical attention.

People are encouraged to speak with their physician if they feel a flutter, skipped beat or any other unusual beat activity. Those who continue to experience symptoms of AF even after treatment are also urged to contact their physician immediately. Many AF patients are able to live normal, active lives.