Atrial fibrillation risks and new treatment technologies

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in adults, affecting approximately 200,000 patients in Greece. The condition is linked to increased cardiac mortality, heart failure, and strokes.

Common symptoms include fatigue, palpitations, a butterfly sensation in the heart, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Some patients may experience “silent” atrial fibrillation, where no symptoms are present, posing a high risk for stroke due to a lack of necessary medication.

Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a 24-hour Holter monitor if symptoms are intermittent. Treatment focuses on two main objectives: reducing thrombophilic risk through oral anticoagulants—especially for high-risk groups such as women over 65 or those with diabetes and hypertension—and reducing symptoms. Recent medical technologies have improved the effectiveness and safety of invasive procedures compared to antiarrhythmic drugs.