WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE MY RISK OF AFIB?

 

 

 

With some people, afib appears to be a mystery, but afib can be prevented in many cases.

STAY FIT! Physical activity on a regular basis is super important, not just for afib.

EAT THE RIGHT HEART-FOOD! Low in saturated fats, cholesterol and trans fats.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, Must be managed.

DO NOT! Use excessive amounts of alcohol! -Binge drinking is out.

CAFFEINE, Manage your intake. Energy drinks with caffeine can be a problem for afib hearts.

WHY SMOKE? It’s bad for your heart.

CHECK YOUR WEIGHT. Your heart works harder when your are overweight.

Conditions that may need treatment.

Sleep apnea

Thyroid disease

Diabetes

Chronic lung disease

Other heart conditions. That is my thing – Tetralogy of Fallot(TOF).

Family history.

Probably the biggest risk with Afib is the possibility of a STROKE.

Stroke risk factors can be:

Previous stroke or transient ischemic attack(TIA)

Your risk increases with age.

If you have a history of high blood pressure.

Diabetes.

Heart disease.

Family history.

Obesity.

Circulation problems.

Smoking.

Manage what you can, and you could prevent a stroke. Up to 80% of strokes can be prevented. Have a good look at your lifestyle and change what you have to.

This information above is available on the American heart association website.

Other keys to preventing afib are:

Use over-the-counter medications with caution and read the packaging, because some cold and cough medications contain stimulants that may trigger a rapid heartbeat. Be informed about what stimulants may trigger a rapid heartbeat or afib attack.

Intense stress and anger can cause rhythm problems. Reduce your stress levels. Know yourself and what causes stress in your life, and manage it.

Salt intake must be monitored. High levels of sodium intake in your diet can lead to hypertension and high blood pressure.

Potassium intake, on the other hand, must not be too low and food like bananas, apricots, oranges, sweet potatoes, beets, tomatoes, prunes, squash and avocados are high in potassium.

Never forget about magnesium! Know what your levels are(or usually is) and ask your doctor to test it.

Learn more about breathing and relaxation techniques, and ask your doctor about something called the “Vagal Maneuver” as explained in ACLS.COM site.

As always consult your doctor before you make any lifestyle or diet changes. I am not a doctor, just a guy who also had AF (afib free for 2 years).