How to prevent atrial fibrillation?

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was written by Master, Doctor Nguyen Van Phong - Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Interventionist - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital
Atrial fibrillation is the result of chaotic electrical signals in the upper heart chambers (atria). Atrial fibrillation causes an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. The incidence of atrial fibrillation increases with age and tends to occur in people with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.

1. What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common arrhythmias, and patients with atrial fibrillation often experience fatigue, dizziness, weakness, sweating, and even chest pain.

2. Measures to help prevent the occurrence of atrial fibrillation

2.1 Limit caffeine Drinks containing caffeine such as coffee, tea, energy drinks ... can increase heart rate, increase the frequency of abnormal heart rhythms, making atrial fibrillation more likely. Therefore, people with atrial fibrillation should limit caffeinated drinks and energy drinks.
2.2 Avoid alcohol, especially excessive alcohol For healthy adults should only have 1-2 small glasses of alcohol per day. But for people with atrial fibrillation, alcohol use causes a rapid heart rate and other symptoms of atrial fibrillation.
To reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation, patients with atrial fibrillation should change alcoholic beverages to other low calorie drinks such as pure fruit juices ...
2.3 Eat bananas or rich fruits Potassium Studies show that if your blood potassium levels are low, you have a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
To prevent atrial fibrillation you should use bananas in dessert. Bananas are packed with potassium and other heart-healthy nutrients.
If you do not like to eat bananas, you can choose other fruits that contain a lot of potassium such as avocados, beans...

2.4 Dipping your head in cold water When you dip your head in cold water or take a cold shower, it stimulates the vagus nerve causing your heart rate to slow down.
Even placing an ice cube on your forehead or standing in the refrigerator door open for a few minutes helps to lower your heart rate.
2.5 Practice a Yoga Pose Yoga practice is a popular way to reduce stress and improve fitness. In a study of 80 people with atrial fibrillation who practiced yoga, "Better quality of life, better blood pressure and heart rate."
You can learn some simple yoga moves online or find a community yoga studio near you or join online classes.
Exercise makes your heart stronger, reduces stress. Reducing stress helps in weight loss and puts you in a better mood.
In addition, regular exercise also helps prevent atrial fibrillation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular death compared to inactive people.
2.6 Try the Valsalva maneuver A breathing technique called the Valsalva maneuver can help prevent episodes of atrial fibrillation. The Valsalva maneuver is performed by forced expiration with closure of the glottis after maximal inspiration.
2.7 Deep Belly Breathing Belly breathing is a quick and relaxing way to slow your heart rate.
Lie on your back, lightly pillow your head, raise your knees slightly. With one hand on your heart and the other under your ribs, inhale slowly through your nose and exhale through pursed lips. You can also do this technique while sitting.
2.8 Healthy Diet A healthy diet is one of the best ways to prevent atrial fibrillation. People with atrial fibrillation should focus on fruits, whole grains, and plant-based protein sources like beans. Low- or no-fat dairy products and lean meats like fish and poultry should be selected.
Limit foods that are salty, high in sugar or saturated fat. Especially need to avoid artificial trans fat (artificial trans fat)
2.9 Binge eating Salty foods not only cause high blood pressure, high blood sodium levels, but are also associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation.
Should limit the use of salty foods such as pizza, cold cuts, salad dressings, soups..., limit the use of spices such as fish sauce, main noodles, soy sauce... to reduce the risk sick.
You should check the sodium content on the product label before use. You should also consult a therapist about your daily sodium level
2.10 Drink enough water If you feel thirsty and your urine is dark yellow: You are probably dehydrated. That means you have a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

You can drink any kind of water you like except beer, coffee, energy drinks. You should drink a lot of fresh fruit juices, even just plain water is very good for your body.
Atrial fibrillation is completely controllable if the patient can control the use of preventive measures, take medicine as directed by the doctor and check blood levels regularly.

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