Perspective chapter: Management and Practice for Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent arrhythmia projected to affect millions of people worldwide, increasing the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, and cardiac death. Effective management strategies for AF focus on a comprehensive approach that addresses the disease as a whole rather than isolating individual aspects. The three main pillars of AF management are stroke prevention, symptom management, and risk factor modification. Stroke prevention remains paramount, utilizing anticoagulation therapy and left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) for patients intolerant to novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Symptom management prioritizes rhythm control, particularly through catheter ablation, which is effective in maintaining sinus rhythm and improving patient outcomes. Risk factor modification involves managing obesity, hypertension, diabetes, alcohol consumption, and smoking cessation, as well as promoting physical activity to reduce AF incidence and recurrence. This holistic approach, integrating advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, aims to mitigate the multifaceted impact of AF and enhance long-term prognosis.