Which technology is commonly used for diagnosing atrial fibrillation?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is the standard technology employed for diagnosing atrial fibrillation. It is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. The ECG provides critical information by displaying the heart's rhythm, rate, and any irregularities that can indicate the presence of atrial fibrillation.

In a patient with atrial fibrillation, an ECG typically reveals an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of distinct P waves, which are the indicators of atrial depolarization. This makes it a direct and effective method for diagnosis, as it visually captures the abnormal heart rhythms characteristic of this condition.

Other methods, like an echocardiogram, primarily assess heart structure and function rather than the electrical activity directly related to diagnosing atrial fibrillation. Blood tests might be used to check for underlying conditions or monitor overall health, while X-rays can visualize the heart's size and position but cannot capture cardiac rhythm, making ECG the most appropriate and commonly utilized technology for diagnosing atrial fibrillation.