Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD, is a common disease of the lungs. There are two common types of COPD, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In most people suffering from COPD, a combination of both types is usually exhibited. The primary cause of COPD is smoking. The main symptom of COPD is shortness of breath, as the disease makes breathing difficult. The disease is progressive, meaning that it gets worse over time.
Smoking, low oxygen levels and inflammation as a result of COPD contribute to atrial remodeling in the heart, leading to the development of atrial fibrillation. There is a direct correlation between COPD and atrial fibrillation, meaning that it is a direct cause of this type of arrhythmia. In a review article, that can be found in the January 2016 edition of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Open Access, the link between COPD and atrial fibrillation was first highlighted.
