What does chronic atrial fibrillation increase the risk of, aside from symptoms related to the arrhythmia?

Chronic atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of stroke and thromboembolism due to the potential for blood stasis in the atria. This stasis can lead to the formation of blood clots, particularly in the left atrial appendage. If these clots dislodge, they can travel to the brain or other parts of the body, resulting in a stroke or other thromboembolic complications.

The underlying mechanism involves the irregular and often rapid heartbeat characteristic of atrial fibrillation, which disrupts normal blood flow and increases the likelihood of clot development. Patients with chronic atrial fibrillation are therefore generally assessed for their stroke risk using scoring systems such as the CHA2DS2-VASc score, which guides anticoagulation therapy to mitigate this risk.

In contrast, while heart failure, myocardial hypertrophy, and coronary artery disease may occur in patients with atrial fibrillation due to various underlying conditions, they are not the primary complications associated with the arrhythmia itself in terms of immediate risk linked to the rhythm disorder. The focus of management in chronic atrial fibrillation often emphasizes preventing the more serious consequences of stroke and thromboembolism, which is why option B is the most relevant and correct