Why are patients with atrial fibrillation often given anticoagulation therapy?

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are often given anticoagulation therapy primarily to reduce the risk of stroke due to blood clots forming in the atria. In AF, the chaotic electrical activity in the atria can lead to ineffective contraction and stagnant blood flow, particularly in the left atrial appendage. This stagnation increases the likelihood of thrombus formation, which can dislodge and travel to the brain, resulting in a stroke.

Anticoagulants work by inhibiting the formation of new blood clots and preventing existing clots from growing larger. This therapeutic approach is crucial because the presence of clot risks is significantly higher in patients with AF compared to those with normal sinus rhythm. By using anticoagulation therapy, healthcare providers aim to mitigate this specific risk and improve overall patient outcomes related to stroke prevention.