Atrial Fibrillation Management for Clinicians

Atrial fibrillation affects roughly two to four percent of adults globally, requiring effective clinical

management. The condition typically emerges after age sixty, driven by rising

obesity and hypertension rates. Pathophysiology centers on chaotic electrical activity in the atria,

often triggered by chronic inflammation. These rapid impulses create the characteristic irregularly irregular pulse

we palpate during clinical examination. Patients report palpitations or fatigue, but some remain

asymptomatic until a routine ECG. Risk stratification drives our approach, using the CHA2DS2-VASc

score to guide anticoagulation decisions. Direct oral anticoagulants like apixaban have largely replaced warfarin

due to lower bleeding risk. Rate control starts with beta blockers, while rhythm control