Sometimes having a heart rhythm disorder has no impact on a person’s well-being and they are able to lead a normal, healthy life. However, sometimes it can be an indication of a serious heart disease. If you have a heart rhythm disorder, it is important that you seek care with heart rhythm specialist who can make sure that your condition doesn’t give you a higher risk of heart failure. Along with cardiology care, you can reduce the risk of your heart rhythm disorder leading to serious issues by making these lifestyle changes:
- Reduce your caffeine intake. The surge of energy you get after drinking a cup of coffee is the result of the caffeine stimulating your heart rate. In people who are prone to irregular heart rates, this can lead to tachycardia– a dangerously rapid rate of heart beats. If you have heavy coffee habits, try replacing your morning cup with a decaffeinated herbal tea or another decaff drink that you enjoy, so that your morning routine is consistent, without the heart rate simulator.
- Limit your alcoholic beverages. Drinking one glass of alcohol per day is not an unhealthy habit, unless you are predisposed to heart rhythm disorders. Alcohol used in excess (or used at all if your heart rhythm is abnormal)increases the blood pressure and leads to a weakened heart muscle, and even causes strokes. Talk to your cardiologist about a healthy alcohol limit for your specific heart condition.
- Eliminate tobacco usage. The stimulants in cigarettes can single-handedly cause heart rhythm disorders. Additionally, smoking causes as much as one-third of all heart disease, and leads to more stroke and heart related deaths than all other habit-forming substances, combined. The best thing you can do for your heart is to stop smoking today.
- Develop healthy dieting habits. Developing a diet that is low in fat and high in lean proteins and vegetables is a great way to maintain a healthy heart. While dieting, avoid diet pills or dietary supplements that act as a stimulant. Check with your doctor before taking any medication, even an over-the-counter or natural supplement, to make sure it doesn’t impacy your heart rate.
- Be cognizant of air pollutants. There are hundreds of airborne pollutants that can aggravate a heart rhythm disorder. Your risk is particularly heightened if you are regularly exposed to them through your work. Such toxins include vehicle emissions, second-hand smoke, and industrial byproducts. If your line of work exposes you to such hazards, talk to your doctor and employer’s safety specialist about options to protect yourself.
Conclusion
If you have a heart rhythm disorder, taking good care of yourself is essential for leading a normal lifestyle. It is most essential that you discuss your symptoms with your physician and to follow their recommended medical regimen. In addition to medical care, developing healthy habits such as a good diet, limited caffeine and alcohol intake, and protecting yourself from tobacco and air pollutants, will prevent your heart rhythm disorder from getting in the way of your long, healthy life!
Does your doctor have suggestions for living with a heart rhythm disorder that we didn’t mention? Leave us a comment with your input below!
