Now, there's a growing recognition that people with afib also face an increased risk of thinking and memory problems — even if they do not experience a stroke. Known as cognitive impairment, these problems include trouble remembering, learning new things, concentrating, or making routine decisions.

Does AF affect the brain?

AF increases the risk of stroke and subclinical cerebral infarcts and can lead to brain hypoperfusion. Oral anticoagulation in patients with AF can lead to new or worsening cerebral microbleeds. In turn, these conditions lead to cognitive decline and increased risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.

Can AFib cause brain damage?

If people with atrial fibrillation are indeed suffering from ongoing brain injuries, they can also be at higher risk of developing everything from depression to neurodegeneration, which is the deterioration or death of the body's nerve cells, especially neurons in the brain, which could cause losses in mental function, ...