Don't
Ignore the Warning Signs
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an
irregular heartbeat. For some, AFib never causes a problem. For others, it can
lead to strokes and heart attacks or heart failure. Symptoms of AFib may include
dizziness, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and chest pain, especially
in people with underlying heart disease. If you feel your heart "skipping
a beat" often, or you have other AFib symptoms that concern you, see your
doctor.
Control
Diabetes and Blood Pressure
Diabetes and high blood pressure
raise your risk of stroke when you have atrial fibrillation. In fact, stroke
occurs about five times more often in people with AFib. By eating foods low in
sugar and salt -- and controlling your weight -- you can help lower your blood
sugar and blood pressure, and reduce your risk of AFib complications.
Eat
a Heart-Healthy Diet
A diet low in refined sugars, trans
fats, and sodium helps to control your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood
pressure. At least half your plate should come from plants, such as leafy
greens and colorful fruits. Add heart-healthy fats, like salmon, which is high
in omega-3 fatty acids. Go for other healthy sources of protein, such as
legumes. And eat whole grains instead of refined carbohydrates for the
heart-healthy fiber.
Quit
Smoking
Studies show that current and former
smokers have an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Plus, smoking
increases your risk of stroke. Put the cigarettes down for good to boost your
odds of living a healthier life. There are many smoking cessation aids -- such
as the nicotine patch, gum, or lozenges -- that may help. Medical treatment to
stop smoking may double your chances of quitting.
Take
Care With Blood Thinners
After being diagnosed with AFib,
your doctor may prescribe several medications, including blood thinners to reduce
your risk of stroke. These anticoagulant drugs can interact with some foods,
supplements, or even other medications. Be sure to ask your doctor what you can
eat -- and what foods to avoid -- while taking your medications.
Limit
Alcohol and Stimulants
A glass of wine at dinner is
probably OK for most people with atrial fibrillation. But moderate to heavy
drinking and binge drinking are linked to further heart rhythm disturbances,
even in people with healthy hearts. This is something you want to avoid with
AFib. Stimulants -- like decongestants with pseudoephedrine -- can also
aggravate your condition.
Don't
Overdo the Coffee
In the past, some doctors told
people with atrial fibrillation never to drink coffee. In recent studies,
however, caffeine doesn’t appear to be linked to more AFib episodes. But
drinking too much caffeine can raise your blood pressure, which you want to
avoid. Keep your caffeine intake moderate to help keep you on an even keel.
Get
Your Body Moving
Regular physical activity can help
you reduce your risk of complications from heart disease. But very vigorous
exercise can sometimes aggravate AFib. Talk with your doctor about what kind of
exercise program is best for you. Be sure to start slowly. Walking for at least
half an hour every day is usually a good place to begin.
Don't
Skip Your Shots
Studies show that people who get
regular flu and pneumonia vaccines have a lower risk of heart attack. When
you're living with atrial fibrillation, it's wise to do whatever you can to
stay healthy. Get your shots before flu season arrives.
Cut
Down on Stress
Acute stress can trigger episodes of
arrhythmia when you have AFib. And chronic stress often leads to unhealthy
habits, such as smoking and heavy drinking -- both bad for your heart. Instead,
try yoga to help manage your stress. One small research study found that it may
reduce the frequency of AFib episodes by 50%
Source: Web MD
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