Atrial Fibrillation
(Afib)
Ask your doctor
Use the following questions as a tool to help you talk to your doctor about atrial fibrillation (Afib). Print them out and take them with you to your next appointment. Take notes to help you remember your discussion when you get home.
- What is causing my atrial fibrillation? Could treating the underlying problem cure my Afib or reduce my symptoms?
- What symptoms should I watch that may indicate that my Afib is worsening? How will I know when to call 911?
- How great is my risk for stroke? How do you recommend reducing my risk?
- What medications should I take for my Afib? Are there side effects I should watch for? Should I be concerned about interactions with other medications, supplements, or vitamins? Are there foods I cannot eat or drink while taking my Afib medications?
- Will coffee, tea, or energy drinks affect my Afib? What about other stimulants?
- Do the medications I will take require blood tests to confirm they are working as they should?
- Would I benefit from a procedure or surgery to control my Afib or reduce my risk for stroke? What would be the risks?
- (If you exercise): May I continue exercising as I have in the past?
- (If you are thinking about exercise or other heart-healthy changes): Do you recommend any changes to my lifestyle? Should I start exercising? If so, are there limitations I should follow?
- (For women*): If I have Afib or am taking Afib medications, can I still take birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy?
- (For men*): If I have Afib or am taking Afib medications, can I use erectile dysfunction medications?
- Will I be able to have dental treatments or other procedures?
- Should I be wearing a medical bracelet? What should it say?
*The term “women” in the context of “women’s cardiovascular health” applies to individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have a female biological reproductive system, which includes a vagina, uterus, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, accessory glands, and external genital organs.
*The term “men” in the context of “cardiovascular health” applies to individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB) who have a male biological reproductive system, which includes a penis, scrotum, testes, epididymis, vas deferens, prostate, and seminal vesicles.