Men With Higher Than Normal Blood Pressure Have a Higher Risks of Atrial fibrillation

In a press release from the American Heart Association, titled: "Middle-aged men with upper-normal blood pressure at risk for AF," it stated that upper-normal blood pressure in healthy, middle-aged men is an early predictor of atrial fibrillation. The study concluded that

• Men with a systolic blood pressure over 140 mm Hg had a 60% increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation or AF.
• Men with a systolic blood pressure between 128 and 138 mm Hg had a 50% increased risk of developing AF.
• Men with a diastolic blood pressure of 80 mm Hg or higher had a 79% increased risks of developing AF.

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial Fibrillation is the rapid and disorganized electrical signals that cause the heart's two upper chambers to contract irregularly and very fast. AF doesn't always cause symptoms. Some may experience chest pain. AF increases the risks of stroke.

One important step to prevent AF is to keep your blood pressure low. Ten things that can help you keep your blood pressure low are:

1. Lose extra weight
2. Regularly exercise
   
3. Maintain a healthy diet
4. Use less sodium
5. Limit your alcohol consumption
6. Stay away from tobacco and second hand smoke
7. Reduce your caffeine
8. Reduce stress
9. Check your blood pressure often
10. Be more social with family and friends

A great resource to help you keep your blood pressure low is Your Guide to Lowering Blood Pressure by the US Department of Health and Human Services. You may also find interesting the Natural Remedies for High Blood Pressure.

For treatment options of atrial fibrillation see Atrial Fibrillation Treatments and Drugs by the Mayo Clinic.

Charles