How is AFib Diagnosed?
To diagnose atrial fibrillation (AFib), a doctor will usually begin with a physical exam, checking your pulse and listening to your heart rhythm. If AFib is suspected, further testing is needed to confirm it.
The main test used is an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). This test records the electrical activity of your heart using small sensors (called electrodes) placed on your chest, arms, and legs. These sensors connect to a machine that shows how your heart is beating.
An ECG helps doctors understand Your heart rate and rhythm
How electrical signals move through your heart
Which areas of the heart are triggering each heartbeat
Because AFib can be intermittent (it can come and go), it may not always show up during a single ECG test. In these cases, your doctor may recommend longer-term monitoring.
Extended Heart Monitoring
To capture irregular rhythms over time, you may be asked to wear a portable monitor, such as:
Holter monitor: A device worn continuously for several days to record your heart rhythm
Event monitor: Worn for weeks, this records activity when triggered automatically or by you
Implantable monitor: A small device placed under the skin to detect rare or infrequent episodes
In addition, some smartwatches and mobile apps can help track heart rhythm and may alert you to irregular patterns, which can be useful to share with your doctorÂ