Management of patients with arterial hypertension and atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Arterial hypertension (AH) is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease as well as it is the most common, independent and potentially reversible risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). AH contributes to the occurrence and maintenance of AF due to hemodynamic disorders, alterations in cardiomyocyte electrophysiological properties and structural remodeling in the atria. AF, which is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, is the most common arrhythmia. AH and AF often coexist, and their prevalence increases with age. This consensus provides the key features of the management of patients with these nosological units. The pathogenesis, risk stratification, and features of the selection of antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic and antithrombotic therapy are described in detail.