Quiz – Feeling The Beat

When the electrical signals that tell your heart to contract are sent in an irregular or fast rhythm, this is known as atrial fibrillation. Think you already know all the facts of this very common condition? Take our quiz to find out:

1. A common cause of atrial fibrillation is:

A. Alcohol use (especially binge drinking)
B. Coronary artery disease
C. Heart attack or heart bypass surgery
D. Hypertension
E. All of the above.

2. Lifestyle has no real effect on managing atrial fibrillation.

A. True
B. False

3. The test that records the electrical activity of the heart is the ___.

A. EEG
B. MRI
C. EMG
D. ECG

4. Atrial fibrillation can cause symptoms to begin or end suddenly.

A. True
B. False

Answers:

1. E. All of the above. Other common causes are certain medications, an overactive thyroid gland, an enlarged heart, and heart valve disease.

 2. B. False. Besides taking medication, people with atrial fibrillation should limit alcohol intake, quit smoking, avoid salty and fatty foods, and avoid stressful situations.

 3. D. ECG, which stands for electrocardiogram. It is also sometimes called an EKG. This painless test is used to detect any damage to the heart.

 4. A. True. You may even be asymptomatic and unaware of your heart’s abnormal pattern. Regular check-ups are the best way to stay on top of your heart health.

Source: Krames Health Library