Does anyone have any thoughts on high altitude causing afib? My wife and I are traveling and are at a bit over 6000 feet, and I've read a few things that higher altitude can be a strain on the heart and maybe even cause afib? I've gotten a few extra ectopics so far, but nothing more fyi...been here 4 days now.

While I had afib, 11 years prior to my first ablation, I made annual, week long ski trips to elevations, generally between 8-12,000 ft. Never had afib while skiing. The 13 years post ablation, same deal, annual ski trips = no afib. Dehydration can be an issue at elevation, generally because of the extra breathing and dry (low humidity) air.

You're at the same (or lower) altitude as being on a flight to Disney World and last I heard flying to Orlando doesn't cause afib. Cabin pressure on modern aircraft is held at about 6,000 ft (1,800 m) and 8,000 ft (2,400 m) on older aircraft.

Ken has a good point about dehydration, though, and dehydration is one of the very few things I know of that is a trigger for everyone.

Agree with Ken. There is also a tendency to attribute afib triggers to about anything once you have afib. I never found one that I could stop doing and as a result stop afib. If only living at sea level was a cure. We'd all be building a resort in Death Valley.

I live at 5500' and skied yesterday at elevations up to 12,700' and not an issue for me. I spend a lot of time sleeping at elevations up to 10,500' when traveling without issue. Everyone is different.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/08/2021 12:49PM by GeorgeN.

Great responses, thanks to everyone!