Having an episode of AFib may lead to a diagnosis.
For some people, an AFib episode can be worrying enough to make them go to the hospital.
Once there, a doctor may diagnose them with AFib and recommend treatment.
AFib can also be diagnosed at a routine check-up, even if there are no symptoms.
There are a number of ways a doctor can tell if a person has AFib.
To make a diagnosis, the doctor may need that person's medical history. One or more
tests may also need to be given, such as:
A complete physical examination
A test called an electrocardiogram (EKG), which records the heart's electrical activity
How does a doctor diagnose AFib?
Play the animated Show Me More to find out. Make sure your sound is turned on.
A heart scan using ultrasound (echocardiogram) is also sometimes used to take a picture of the heart and how it's working.
This can show any structural heart disease.
A doctor may also have a person who might have AFib use a Holter monitor to track their heart's rhythm. A person usually wears this device for 24-48
hours. Electrical patches connect the small monitor to their chest, and they carry
the monitor in a pocket or in a pouch worn around the neck or waist. While they
wear the monitor, it records their heart's electrical activity.
They may be asked by the doctor to keep a diary of what they do while wearing the
monitor. After 24-48 hours, they return the monitor to the doctor's office. The
doctor can then look at the monitor's records to see if they've had any irregular
heart rhythms.
*MULTAQ isn't right for all people with AFib. See the boxed text at right to learn
more.
Important Safety Information
Do not take MULTAQ if you have severe heart failure
or if you have been in the hospital recently for heart failure, even if you are
better now. People with severe heart failure who take MULTAQ have an increased chance
of dying.
Call your doctor immediately if you're taking MULTAQ and feel symptoms of worsening
heart failure. These may include weight gain, leg swelling, and increasing shortness
of breath while resting.
You should not take MULTAQ if you have severe liver problems.
You should not take MULTAQ if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or plan to become
pregnant as it is not known if it may pass to or harm your baby.
Your potassium levels should be within the normal range prior to and while taking
MULTAQ. Tell your doctor about any diuretic medications you are taking as some can
lower the level of potassium or magnesium in your blood.
Your doctor may perform certain tests, such as heart exams and blood tests, while
you're taking MULTAQ.
MULTAQ can interact with certain medications and herbal supplements. Do not use
the following medications with MULTAQ:
- Nefazodone
- Voriconazole
- Ritonavir
- Telithromycin
- Ketoconazole
- Clarithromycin
- Itraconazole
- Cyclosporine
The following medicines can lead to a dangerous abnormal heart rhythm if taken with
MULTAQ:
- Phenothiazines
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Certain medicines used to treat abnormal heart rhythm or fast heartbeat
- Certain antibiotics
Please read the accompanying Medication Guide and tell your doctor about all medications
you take to help avoid serious drug interactions. Do not drink grapefruit juice
while taking MULTAQ.
The most common side effects when taking MULTAQ are diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain,
skin rash, and slowed heartbeat.
Full Prescribing Information Including Boxed Warning
MULTAQ Medication Guide (English)
Guía del Medicamento de MULTAQ (Español)
Click here for information on drug anti-counterfeiting
Remember, your doctor is the single best source of information regarding your health.
Please consult your doctor if you have any questions about your health or your medicine.
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