Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), a widespread disease with a low diagnostic rate, is closely associated with a variety of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, myocardial infarction and cardiac insufficiency. In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the relationship between OSAS and atrial fibrillation (AF). Studies believe that OSAS is an important factor affecting AF load. Inflammation, autonomic nerve function and other factors are believed to be the intrinsic link between the two. This article reviews the current research on the epidemiology, pathophysiology and treatment of OSAS and AF.