What are the most common causes of premature atrial contractions?

Premature atrial contractions, or PACs, are frequently triggered by factors that enhance the heart's excitability, leading to the premature firing of atrial cells. Stimulants such as caffeine and tobacco are well-known culprits, as they affect the autonomic nervous system and can increase heart rate and promote the occurrence of PACs. Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks, acts as a central nervous system stimulant, while nicotine from tobacco can activate pathways that lead to enhanced atrial activity.

Excessive physical exercise might contribute to cardiac irritability in certain individuals, but it is not as consistently associated with PACs as stimulants are. High cholesterol levels do not directly cause PACs; rather, they are more related to long-term cardiovascular health risks. Low potassium levels can cause various arrhythmias but are less commonly noted as a direct cause of PACs.

Understanding the impact of stimulants provides insights into lifestyle modifications that can help manage or reduce the frequency of PACs for those who experience them.