What physical assessments can be done to assess for the presence of atrial fibrillation?
DiagnosisSome people are unaware that they have atrial fibrillation (A-fib). A-fib may be detected when a doctor is listening to the heart with a stethoscope during a physical exam for other reasons. Show
A doctor may order several tests to diagnose A-fib or exclude other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Tests may include:
TreatmentTreatment for atrial fibrillation depends on how long you've had A-fib, your symptoms and the underlying cause of the heartbeat problem. The goals of treatment are to:
Atrial fibrillation treatment may involve:
Together, you and your doctors will discuss the best treatment option for you. It's important to follow your atrial fibrillation treatment plan. If A-fib isn't well controlled, it may lead to other complications, including strokes and heart failure. MedicationsYou may be prescribed medications to control how fast your heart beats and restore it to a normal rate. Medications are also prescribed to prevent blood clots, a dangerous complication of A-fib. Medications used to treat atrial fibrillation include:
Cardioversion therapyIf A-fib symptoms are bothersome or if this is the first episode of atrial fibrillation, a doctor may attempt to reset the heart rhythm (sinus rhythm) using a procedure called cardioversion. Cardioversion can be done in two ways:
Cardioversion is usually done in a hospital as a scheduled procedure, but it may be done in emergency situations. If it's scheduled, warfarin (Jantoven) or another blood thinner may be given a few weeks before it's done to reduce the risk of blood clots and strokes. After electrical cardioversion, anti-arrhythmic medications may be prescribed indefinitely to help prevent future episodes of atrial fibrillation. Even with medications, there is a chance of another episode of atrial fibrillation. Surgery or catheter proceduresIf A-fib doesn't get better with medications or other therapies, a doctor might recommend a procedure called cardiac ablation. Sometimes ablation is the first treatment for certain patients. Cardiac ablation uses heat (radiofrequency energy) or extreme cold (cryoablation) to create scars in your heart to block abnormal electrical signals and restore a normal heartbeat. A doctor inserts a flexible tube (catheter) through a blood vessel, usually in your groin, and into your heart. More than one catheter may be used. Sensors on the tip of the catheter apply the cold or heat energy. Less commonly, ablation is performed using a scalpel during open-heart surgery. There are different types of cardiac ablation. The type used to treat atrial fibrillation depends on your specific symptoms, overall health and whether you're having another heart surgery. For example, some of the types of cardiac ablation that may be used to treat atrial fibrillation are:
Atrial fibrillation may return after cardiac ablation. If this happens, another cardiac ablation or other heart treatment may be recommended. After cardiac ablation, lifelong blood thinners may be needed to prevent strokes. If a person with A-fib can't take blood-thinning medications, a doctor may recommend a catheter procedure to seal a small sac (appendage) in the left upper heart chamber, where most A-fib related clots form. This procedure is called left atrial appendage closure. A closure device is gently guided through a catheter to the sac. Once the device is in place, the catheter is removed. The device is left permanently in place. Surgery to close the left atrial appendage is an option for some people already having heart surgery. More Information
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Preparing for your appointmentIf you have an irregular or pounding heartbeat, make an appointment with your family doctor. If atrial fibrillation is found early, treatment may be easier and more effective. You may be referred to a doctor trained in heart conditions (cardiologist). Because appointments can be brief, and because there's often a lot to discuss, it's a good idea to be prepared for your appointment. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor. What you can do
Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important, in case time runs out. For atrial fibrillation, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:
In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment. What to expect from your doctorYour doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may save time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:
Oct. 19, 2021 What do you assess for atrial fibrillation?Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG).
An ECG can show if the heart is beating too fast, too slow or not at all. An ECG is the main test for diagnosing atrial fibrillation.
What are the classic signs in atrial fibrillation?During atrial fibrillation, the heart's upper chambers (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly — out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles) of the heart. For many people, A-fib may have no symptoms. However, A-fib may cause a fast, pounding heartbeat (palpitations), shortness of breath or weakness.
How do you check blood pressure with atrial fibrillation?Full statement. Office blood pressure measurements should be carried out using an auscultatory method with a calibrated analogue sphygmomanometer. ... . Auscultatory methods are recommended due to the lack of evidence for accuracy of most oscillometric devices in the presence of atrial fibrillation [3].. How do you diagnose atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation?In atrial flutter, there is a “sawtooth” pattern on an ECG. In AFib, the ECG test shows an irregular ventricular rate. The symptoms of atrial flutter tend to be less severe than the symptoms of AFib. People with atrial flutter have a tendency to develop AFib, even after treatment.
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