“How is atrial fibrillation usually diagnosed?”

Question

Cardiac Electrophysiologist Questions Atrial Fibrillation

“How is atrial fibrillation usually diagnosed?”

My mother has atrial fibrillation, but I'm just wondering how this condition is usually diagnosed in patients. How is it detected?

3 Answers

What Is Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation?

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**Mark Rasak** Cardiologist · Accepted Answer

Mark Rasak Cardiologist

ECG usually but if it's intermittent then Holter monitor can be used.

**Emad F. Aziz** Cardiac Electrophysiologist Newark, New Jersey · Accepted Answer

Prolonged monitoring is the key. This can be achieved initially by a portable 30-day event monitor and if atrial fibrillation detected and the suspicion is still high then an implantable small monitors are used these are called "Loop Recorders" like the Medtronic Linq device. These devices can record the heart beats 24/7 for up to 3 years and transmit data remotely to your physician on a daily basis.

**Jeffrey S. Rose** Cardiac Electrophysiologist Gig Harbor, WA · Accepted Answer

Jeffrey S. Rose Cardiac Electrophysiologist Gig Harbor, WA

The diagnosis is made by examining the EKG. This disorder of the heartbeat is very common. It can be responsible for a stroke in many patients. These strokes are preventable with specific medications.