Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a close relationship with the development of heart failure and atrial fibrillation (AF). In the pathogenesis of AF in patients with COPD, decreased oxygenation, hypercapnia, pulmonary hypertension, diastolic dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, changes in atrial size, and the use of respiratory drugs for the treatment of COPD are important. Understanding the relationship between COPD and AF is of particular importance because the presence of arrhythmias has a significant impact on mortality, especially in exacerbations of COPD. In the presence of COPD, patients with AF have a more rapid progression of AF, recurrence of AF after catheter ablation, and an increase in mortality from cardiovascular diseases. Treatment of the underlying disease, correction of hypoxia and acid‑base imbalance is the first line therapy for patients with COPD who develop AF. Cardioselective β‑blockers are safe and can be used for COPD. AF ablation is effective and safe and improves the quality of life of these patients.