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How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?
AFib may be diagnosed by a primary care physician, cardiologist, or electrophysiologist. After reviewing your health history and conducting a physician exam, the following tests may be performed to diagnose AFib.1
EKG
The standard test doctors use to diagnose AFib is an EKG, or electrocardiogram. This test uses painless electrodes placed on your chest that detect the electric currents that your heart uses to generate the rhythmic muscular contractions that pump blood through its chambers and out to your body.
Holter Monitor or Event Monitor
If AFib isn’t detected during an EKG, which generally lasts only a few minutes, you may need to wear a portable EKG monitor to get an accurate evaluation of your heart function over several days, weeks or months. There are two types of portable EKG devices: Holter monitors, which are used in instances where symptoms generally occur on a daily basis, and event monitors, which are used when symptoms are less frequent or predictable.
Stress Test
A standard stress test shows changes in your heart's electrical activity. This type of test is helpful to diagnose forms of AFib that occur mainly or frequently during times of increased physical activity or your doctor may be interested in seeing how your heart functions under stress and how your AFib symptoms are affected by physical activity.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you are concerned that you might have AFib, schedule an appointment with an EP near you. Prepare for your appointment by downloading a list of questions to ask your doctor.
AFib Community & Support
Don't face AFib alone.
If you or someone you love is affected by AFib, join our Facebook community to share your experiences, ask questions, and get support from others like you.
THERMOCOOL® Catheters are approved for drug refractory recurrent symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, when used with CARTO® 3 Systems (excluding NAVISTAR® RMT THERMOCOOL® Catheter).
Caution: US law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician. Important information: Prior to use, refer to the instructions for use supplied with this device for indications, contraindications, side effects, warnings and precautions.
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