Atrial Fibrillation Risks and Detection Guidance Highlighted by German Heart Foundation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is identified as the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder, affecting millions worldwide. The German Heart Foundation notes that 20‑30 % of strokes are linked to undiagnosed AF due to blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain.

Typical symptoms include an irregular or rapid pulse, shortness of breath, chest pressure or pain, dizziness, and fatigue, though up to half of those affected may experience no noticeable signs. The foundation advises regular pulse monitoring, especially for individuals over 65 or with high blood pressure, and recommends medical examination with an ECG or long‑term ECG when irregularities appear.

Treatment options range from medications that restore normal heart rhythm to anticoagulants that reduce clot risk. In some cases, minimally invasive catheter ablation or surgical isolation of the pulmonary veins may be employed to eliminate the errant electrical signals causing AF.