Questions to ask your cardiologist or EP on your first visit

You will probably want to allow your doctor to take the lead and then check over the list of questions before you go to make sure all have been covered.  Most physicians will appreciate your taking an interest in your treatment; a small percentage will simply want to give orders. You should assume that all of them are pressed for time.

The first visit can be anxiety-provoking and confusing, so you might consider having someone go with you to help you remember exactly what the doctor said.  You can give your companion a copy of these questions so he or she can make sure they are all answered.

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Are there tests that need to be done to determine if I have atrial fibrillation (AF) and/or atrial flutter (AFL) or some other arrhythmia?

Is monitoring needed to determine the frequency and duration of my episodes?

What type of AF do I have?

What is the usual course or progression for my type of AF for people that are similar to me with regard to factors that affect this progression?

What is my risk for stroke or heart problems?

What are some things that could be causing or triggering my atrial fibrillation?

How can we deal with some of these factors?

What is the first step we should take to treat my AF? What is “Plan B”?

Are there any supplements, such as magnesium or potassium that you would recommend?

Will you be prescribing any medication? What are the side effects?

How successful are the various pharmacological, or catheter- or surgical ablation treatments?

Should I get an appointment with a specialist, such as an EP or surgeon? 

Do I need any blood work or imaging done?

What should I do if I have another episode? Under what circumstances should I call your office?

Under what circumstances should I have a cardioversion in the hospital? How would this be set up?