Ventricular Fibrillation

Overview

A provider can confirm a ventricular fibrillation rhythm with an electrocardiogram (EKG), especially after resuscitating you from cardiac arrest. They can also diagnose it during cardiac arrest if you have a cardiac monitor on or an implanted cardiac device.

They’ll also work to find out what caused ventricular fibrillation. A provider will collect your medical history and do a physical exam. They may order several other tests, like blood tests, an echocardiogram, a cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a coronary angiogram with a cardiac catheterization.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.