What device can be used for continuous monitoring of heart rhythm in atrial fibrillation?

The implantable loop recorder is specifically designed for continuous heart rhythm monitoring, making it particularly effective for managing conditions like atrial fibrillation. This device is implanted under the skin and can continuously record the heart's electrical activity for long periods, usually up to several years. It is especially useful for detecting infrequent or paroxysmal episodes of atrial fibrillation that may not appear during routine evaluations.

In contrast, while an electrocardiogram (ECG) is vital for diagnosing atrial fibrillation, it typically provides a snapshot of the heart's rhythm at a single point in time and requires the patient to be connected to the machine during that short duration. A blood pressure monitor is not capable of assessing heart rhythm but instead focuses solely on measuring blood pressure levels. A heart rate watch can offer insights into heart rate but does not provide a comprehensive analysis of the rhythm or the specific pattern of atrial fibrillation over time.

Thus, the implantable loop recorder stands out as the most suitable option for ongoing and detailed monitoring necessary in the management of atrial fibrillation.