Atrial fibrillation and gastroesophageal reflux disease: From the cardiologist perspective

Mariana Floria1, Vasile Liviu Drug1

  • 1Mariana Floria, Gr. T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.

Insights

Gastroesophageal reflux disease may act as a trigger for atrial fibrillation, a common arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation should be considered an extraesophageal syndrome associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and atrial fibrillation (AF) share common pathogenic mechanisms.
  • Cardiovascular involvement in GERD requires further assessment.
  • Left atrial remodeling, influenced by hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, predisposes individuals to AF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the underappreciated cardiovascular aspects of GERD.
  • To propose AF as a potential extraesophageal manifestation of GERD.
  • To discuss GERD as a possible trigger for AF.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on GERD and AF.
  • Cardiological perspective on pathogenic mechanisms.
  • Analysis of predisposing factors for AF.

Main Results:

  • GERD may serve as a trigger for AF.
  • Underlying conditions like hypertension, obesity, and diabetes contribute to AF development through atrial remodeling.
  • The relationship between GERD and cardiovascular conditions warrants deeper investigation.

Conclusions:

  • Atrial fibrillation should be considered a potential extraesophageal syndrome in the classification of GERD.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the link between GERD and cardiovascular events.

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