Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Important Answers About Atrial Fibrillation

So how is the condition diagnosed?
If a doctor suspects AFib, you may be given an electrocardiogram, a test that shows detailed images of your heart, according to the AHA.

Some patients wear a small, portable electrocardiogram device, called a Holter Monitor, which records heart rhythms for 24 to 48 hours. Another option is an "event" monitor worn for as long as a month. This has a button you push when you feel symptoms.

Some symptoms of AFib resemble those of a heart attack, so how can you tell the difference?
The main symptom of AFib is heart fluttering or palpitations, which isn't a sign of a heart attack. Still, it's common to confuse the two, because dizziness and shortness of breath occur with both, the AHA says.

A heart attack also has other common symptoms, such as chest discomfort that feels like pressure, sharp pain or heaviness. Women can experience different symptoms from men: For example, mild or severe pain travels down your arms, into your jaw area, or back or stomach. It can also come and go. It can be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea or confusion.