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Insertable Cardiac Monitors

Diagnosing an Irregular Heartbeat

An irregular heartbeat may be highly treatable when properly diagnosed. With an Insertable Cardiac Monitor (ICM), sometimes called a loop recorder, your doctor can learn what treatment will get you on your way to feeling better. 

Common Conditions Related to Irregular Heartbeat

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

With AFib, the heart’s upper chambers beat irregularly. This can increase your risk of stroke. Symptoms may include having a hard time being active without feeling tired or winded.

Unexplained Fainting

Fainting, also known as syncope, is another heart-related condition. Symptoms include feeling dizzy, changes in vision, feeling sick (nausea) or having a hard time standing.

Understanding Your Symptoms

If your doctor suspects you may have a cardiac arrhythmia, such as AFib, they may recommend continuous heart monitoring to record your symptoms and episodes as they occur over an extended period of time.

Symptoms of AFib can include:

  • Racing, pounding heart
  • Erratic pulse
  • Feeling worn out, fatigued
  • Shortness of breath
  • Trouble with normal exercise and activities
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Lightheadedness, dizziness and fainting

Many people who have AFib may not experience these symptoms. It is important for your doctor to accurately diagnose your condition and understand how often and how long it occurs.

Irregular heartbeat puts you 5x more at risk of stroke from AFib Irregular heartbeat puts you 5x more at risk of stroke from AFib

Diagnosis is Empowering

Start the conversation with your doctor to see if an Abbott ICM could help you get a diagnosis.

References

  1. Chugh SS, Havmoeller R, Narayanan K, et al. Worldwide Epidemiology of Atrial Fibrillation: a Global Burden of Disease 2010 Study. Circulation. 2014;129(8):837-847. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.113.005119
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heart Disease Resources for Health Professionals - Atrial Fibrillation. Updated October 14, 2022. Access February 28, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/atrial_fibrillation.htm
  3. American Heart Association. What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib or AF)?. Updated July 31, 2016. Accessed February 28, 2023. https://www.heart.org/en/heart-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af™ Indicates a trademark of the Abbott group of companies.

™ Indicates a trademark of the Abbott group of companies.
‡ Indicates a third-party trademark, which is property of its respective owner.

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