How to Stop an AFib Episode
Many people with AFib don’t even know it. That’s because the condition’s common and benign in the early stages.
When atrial fibrillation causes symptoms, though, you must know and act. Maybe you’re one of the millions of people with this irregular heartbeat. Perhaps you’ve even experienced irregular beating already.
If so, you know it’s not only uncomfortable. It’s downright debilitating too. How can you prevent or stop an AFib episode so you can go on with your day? Here’s how.
Keep reading!
Relaxation Techniques
If you are having AFib and shortness of breath, deep breathing is one of the best techniques. It helps to calm the mind and reduce the stress that may provoke the onset of an AFib episode.
Visualization is another very effective technique. This exercise lets you imagine yourself in a calming and relaxing place. This helps reduce physical and mental stress.
Progressive muscle relaxation is another technique where you consciously tense and relax all the muscle groups of the body, starting from the toes and working up the body to the head. Other relaxation techniques include yoga and mindfulness meditation that help reduce heart rate, maintain regular breathing, and lower stress hormones.
Medication Management
Medication management may involve taking a beta-blocker. It helps with the irregular heart rate or taking an anticoagulant to thin the blood and help prevent clots from forming.
Doctors may also prescribe a combination of medications, such as converting agents, which work to convert AFib back to a normal rhythm. Whenever any kind of changes in medication are made, it is important to fully understand the risks and benefits of the medications prescribed to make sure they are properly managed and monitored.
Identifying Triggers of Afib Episodes
Identifying triggers of AFib attack is an important step in helping to prevent or stop a flare-up. Triggers can be environmental, emotional, or physical and can vary greatly for each individual.
Some common triggers include stress, alcohol consumption, extreme temperature changes, physical exertion, or certain foods. It is important to pay close attention to how one’s body and emotions respond to these triggers and make lifestyle changes accordingly in order to reduce the risk of a flare-up.
Keeping a journal to document any triggers or symptoms experienced during an episode can be helpful in learning to identify possible triggers.
Exploring Natural Remedies
Certain herbs and supplements, such as hawthorn, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and CoQ10, may help reduce the occurrence of episodes. Other natural remedies include acupuncture, acupressure, and yoga. It can help regulate heart rate and may help stop an episode.
It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional prior to using any natural remedy, as some natural remedies may interact with any medications you may be taking.
It is also crucial to take into consideration the possible side effects of natural remedies, as some herbal medicines may not be appropriate for certain individuals.
Learn to Stop AFib Episode Starting Today
An AFib episode can be a scary experience, but if managed with proper care and awareness, an episode can be stopped. Knowing the right steps to take in this situation is key.
See your healthcare provider to build a comprehensive plan to stop an AFib episode and take charge of your heart health. So, take the steps and be proactive today, and you can put an end to AFib episodes.
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