Does electrocardiogram treat atrial fibrillation?

During an ECG, sensors record the heart's electrical pattern. Atrial fibrillation can appear as an irregular rhythm without the usual organised atrial activity. If episodes come and go, a short recording may miss one, so a clinician may suggest a longer monitor. The result helps guide decisions about controlling the rate or rhythm and reducing clot-related risk, but the ECG does not change the rhythm itself.

Bring a list of medicines and describe palpitations, breathlessness, tiredness, dizziness, and when they occur. Use prescribed medicines consistently; do not alter a blood thinner or rhythm medicine without advice. Your clinician may check blood tests, heart structure, or blood pressure alongside the ECG. Keep a note of triggers and episode timing if symptoms are intermittent.

Seek emergency help for a fast or irregular heartbeat with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, or new weakness or numbness on one side. Sudden trouble speaking or seeing also needs immediate assessment. Contact your clinician promptly for new or worsening palpitations, even if they have settled.

Did the ECG capture atrial fibrillation? Do I need longer rhythm monitoring? What is the purpose of each medicine, and which symptoms should trigger emergency care?