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\nA doctor will diagnose atrial fibrillation based on your medical and family history, a physical exam, the results from an electrocardiogram (EKG), and possibly other tests and procedures. If you have atrial fibrillation, your doctor will also look for any disease that may be causing it and assess your risk of developing dangerous blood clots. This will help him or her plan the best way to treat you.
\nTo help diagnose atrial fibrillation, your doctor will ask about your eating and physical activity habits, family history, and other risk factors for atrial fibrillation and heart disease. Your doctor may ask whether you have any other signs or symptoms. This information can help your doctor determine whether you have complications or other conditions that may be causing you to have atrial fibrillation.
\nYour doctor will do a complete examination of your heart and lungs, including:
\nTo diagnose atrial fibrillation, your doctor will likely do an EKG first to record your heart\u2019s electrical activity. Data from a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator may also be helpful. If the diagnosis is unclear from the EKG or your doctor would like more information, your doctor may order additional testing:
\nYour doctor may order other tests to record abnormal heart rhythms that happen under specific conditions or outside of the clinic, confirm whether you have atrial fibrillation or another arrhythmia, and figure out which treatment is best. These tests may include:
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