People with AF often also have narrowing of the valve between the left atrium and the left ventricle. This causes the wall of the left atrium to become thicker. Suggest why.

With a narrowed (stenosed) AV valve it is more difficult (requires more pressure) for the blood to pass from atrium to ventricle. The blood pressure in the atria is increased.

This means that the atrium must contract harder and with more force in order to pump the blood through the narrowed valve into the ventricles.

And becuase the muscle wall of the atria is working harder it begomes thicker.

AH
Answered by Aaron H. Human Biology tutor

3738 Views

See similar Human Biology A Level tutors

Related Human Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Through which chambers and valves does the blood flow in the human heart?


What is the difference between skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle?


How do you withdraw your hand from a painful stimulus?


What are the stages of meiosis in plant and animal cells?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning