A reliable way to diagnose Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is to record an electrocardiogram (ECG) during an episode of AF. But AF episodes can be unpredictable, so an ECG recorded at your doctor’s office may appear to be normal.

If this happens, your doctor may ask you to wear a portable monitor, such as an event monitor, or a Holter monitor, to record your heart’s electrical signals. Your doctor will then analyze the monitor recordings to determine if you have AF.

If you’ve been diagnosed with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib), it’s important to talk to your doctor about your condition and treatment options. To help get the conversation started, bring our doctor discussion guide to your next appointment.