If your doctor thinks that you have atrial fibrillation (AF), he or she may ask you to do some tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can help you learn more about what's causing your AF and the best way to treat it. The following are common tests that may be performed.
ECG
An electrocardiogram (or ECG) is a useful and easy test which records the rhythm and electrical activity of your heart. An electrocardiograph machine records your heart's rhythm onto paper through sticky electrodes which are placed on your chest, arms and legs.
For more information view our free electrocardiograph resources.
Echocardiogram
Similar to an Ultrasound test, an echocardiogram (or Echo) uses sound waves to study the structure of your heart. It also looks at how your heart and valves are working. A probe transmits and records these sound waves, producing a moving image of your heart on a computer.
For more information view our free echocardiogram resources.
Holter Monitor
A Holter Monitor is used to identify any heart rhythm problem. For this test you wear a small, portable ECG machine for 24 to 48 hours and during this time your heart rate and rhythm are recorded.
For more information view our free Holter monitoring resource.
Event Monitoring
Event monitoring may be used if you don’t get symptoms very often. The monitor is used to record your heartbeat when you experience symptoms such as dizziness, black outs, chest pain or palpitations. When symptoms start, you will need to press a button to start the recording. This records your rhythm and heart rate over a longer time period.
For more information view our free event monitoring resource.
Other Tests
Other tests may include a blood pressure check as well as blood tests to see how well your kidneys and thyroid are working.
Visit our resource section to view all of our heart test resources.