Advertisement
The short answer from a cardiovascular researcher
A: It’s not uncommon for atrial fibrillation (AFib) to occur at night. The nerves that control your heart rate typically are in sleep mode, and that’s when your resting heart rate drops. Under these conditions, pacemaker activity from areas other than the normal pacemaker in the heart can trigger the onset of AFib.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
In addition, many patients with AFib have an underlying issue of obstructive or central sleep apnea. If you are frequently sleepy during the daytime, that is especially likely to be the case. If you suffer from AFib, sleep apnea can disrupt the heart’s rhythms. This is a dangerous combination.
To help treat sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or other devices that may help to reduce the frequency and burden of AFib.
— Researcher David Van Wagoner, PhD
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Opt for plant-based foods and consider limiting alcohol and caffeine
Having atrial fibrillation increases your risk of stroke — but blood thinners can help for many people
Making healthy lifestyle changes ahead of surgery can help you avoid AFib after
Knowing the facts can make all the difference
Up to 30% of people who take the cholesterol-lowering medication feel aches and soreness
Sleep apnea is associated with sudden cardiac death and other complications that increase your risk of mortality
Though it was once used as a cholesterol-lowering medication, niacin is no longer a recommended treatment
A clean CPAP machine can help you sleep and breathe better
If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help
If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style
If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods