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Heart failure - chronic - Management
How should I manage someone with atrial fibrillation as a comorbidity in heart failure?
- Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in people with heart failure. Its onset may lead to worsening of symptoms and poor prognosis.
- Consider referral for assessment for possible cardioversion or rhythm control.
- If rate control is chosen, then a beta-blocker is first-line choice. Digoxin is an alternative if a beta-blocker cannot be taken.
- Antithrombotic treatment is recommended for all people with atrial fibrillation and heart failure, unless it is contraindicated.
- For detailed information on the management of atrial fibrillation, see the CKS topic on Atrial fibrillation.
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