Can alcohol induce AF?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 23 years old. I had alcohol-induced AF after consuming vodka. I consumed roughly the same amount two nights before. AF seemed to start after vomiting. I was cardioverted after 12 hours. I was informed by the doctor that this was alcohol induced. He advised me to avoid alcohol for a month, and probably it will not happen again. I have a history of alcohol abuse. My chest X-ray is normal. I had a follow-up 24-hour ECG and echo. Will AF recur? Is it ever safe to drink again? Is there a likelihood of a congenital problem?

My father had a similar episode 40 years ago after drinking Port wine, and it was told was due to sediment. Could sediment cause AF? I do not have congenital heart disease as far as I am aware. I would have asked my doctor these questions, but Midazolam had made me sleepy. My blood reports are normal except for potassium deficiency at that time.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You were told by the attending cardiologist who did cardioversion, a life-saving measure, to avoid alcohol as it precipitates another AF (atrial fibrillation), especially after vomiting. Please say no to alcohol as AF can recur again and is not safe for you. It is unlikely to be congenital. You can do Holter monitoring to identify evidence of any cardiac rhythm disturbance. If the potassium level is still low, then you need correction. Consult your doctor, discuss with him or her, and take treatment with consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.