Various studies have shown an association between alcohol use and atrial fibrillation. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2020 found that abstinence from alcohol reduced arrhythmia recurrences in regular drinkers with atrial fibrillation. Experts found that the effect of alcohol abstinence was long-lasting if patients maintained abstinence.
Studies have found that both habitual drinking at moderate levels as well as binge drinking can predispose individuals to atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation associated with alcohol use may be intermittent or persistent. Patients with alcohol-associated atrial fibrillation may have an irregular or thready pulse. Cardiac auscultation is usually normal, except for an irregularly irregular pulse.
Read more about atrial fibrillation and alcohol.
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Cite this: Richard H. Sinert. Fast Five Quiz: Alcohol Use Facts vs Fiction - Medscape - Jan 21, 2021.
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