Diagnosis and Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

Diagnosis and treatment goals

The treatment goals of atrial fibrillation, also called AF or AFib, start with a diagnosis. Your health care professional will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam. They may also do an electrocardiogram (EKG). This test checks your heart’s electrical activity. Some people may need more tests, such as an electrophysiology study. Read about AFib treatment options.

Treatment and risk reduction

Not all strokes or clots can be prevented, but there are ways to reduce the risks.

After being diagnosed with AFib, your goals may include:

• Getting your heart back to a normal rhythm (called rhythm control)
• Slowing down a fast heart rate (called rate control)
• Preventing blood clots
• Managing stroke risk factors
• Preventing more heart rhythm problems
• Preventing heart failure

Your health care professional may suggest lifestyle changes, including:

• Getting regular physical activity
• Eating a heart-healthy diet low in:
  • Salt (sodium)
  • Saturated fats
  • Trans fats
  • Cholesterol
• Managing high blood pressure
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine
• Not smoking
• Controlling cholesterol
• Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight

Shared Decision-Making for People Living With AFib (PDF)