LIFESTYLE CHANGES ARE IMPORTANT FOR MANAGING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that occurs when the two upper chambers of your heart experience chaotic electrical signals. This causes a fast and irregular heart rhythm.

Atrial fibrillation, also known as Afib, is a relatively common heart condition that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications if not treated effectively.

Luckily, atrial fibrillation can be managed and controlled with lifestyle changes. In fact, specialist cardiologists are just beginning to understand the extent of influence that lifestyle factors have over Afib.

Here are some of the most significant lifestyle factors that are important for managing atrial fibrillation:

Obesity

Obesity is a leading cause of atrial fibrillation. There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, obesity is associated with changes to electrical signaling within the atria, as well as structural changes to the heart’s upper chambers, which can result in irregular heartbeat.

Secondly, as we gain weight, fat is deposited in the heart. This extra deposit of fat can trigger arrhythmias.

And thirdly, Overeating, or eating unhealthy, fatty foods can also cause inflammation via changes in hormone and cell-signaling pathways in the atria, leading to Afib.

Therefore, if you are overweight, then the first thing that specialist cardiologists in Dubai will recommend is losing weight to control atrial fibrillation. This can be done through an exercise and diet program.

Exercise

Daily exercise is a great way to keep your cardiovascular system strong and healthy, and to prevent developing heart disease. At the same time, it is very important for managing Afib. Regular exercise can greatly control symptoms of atrial fibrillation and prevent an escalation of the condition.

The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, to improve cardiovascular health. However, it is important to check with your heart specialist in Dubai before starting a new exercise program.

Diet

An unhealthy diet that is packed with trans fats, sodium, and sugars will clog arteries and cause fat deposits in the heart. This can lead to a number of severe heart conditions, including Afib.

Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or are at high risk for developing it, then it is time to change your diet. Switch processed foods for fresh alternatives, fruits and vegetables, and other heart-healthy foods, such as:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Omega-3 fish
• Nuts and seeds
• Olive oil
• Whole grains
• Fresh fruits

Specialist cardiologists in Dubai can help you plan out a heart-healthy diet for controlling atrial fibrillation and maintaining overall heart health.

Sleep Patterns

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder in which people stop breathing for short periods while they are sleeping.  It is a common sleep disorder, and studies have shown that it can be linked to Afib, among other heart diseases. In fact, specialist cardiologists in Dubai often screen patients of Afib for this heart disorder.

Treatment of sleep disorders such as OSA can help significantly improve the symptoms and recurrence of atrial fibrillation, so speak to your heart specialist about getting a sleep study.

Managing Atrial Fibrillation with Lifestyle Changes

As you can see, there are several lifestyle changes that you can make to significantly reduce symptoms and severity of atrial fibrillation. These lifestyle changes will also promote overall better heart health and prevent the development of further cardiovascular diseases.

If you are suffering from Afib, then speak with your heart specialist in Dubai regarding lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your heart health and effectively manage the condition.

To consult with the best specialist cardiologists in Dubai, head over to the German Heart Centre. We are the leading Heart Hospital in Dubai, and can help you come up with the best holistic treatment plan for managing cardiovascular conditions and promoting good health.