How do I manage my atrial fibrillation on a daily basis?

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  1. To manage your atrial fibrillation on a daily basis, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. Eat food that is good for your heart, keeping saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol low and consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Take steps to lower your blood pressure; lowering your intake of salt can help. Exercise more, quit smoking, and limit your alcohol consumption (one drink per day for women, two for men). Talk to your doctor about other ways to manage your atrial fibrillation.

    To manage your atrial fibrillation on a daily basis, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. Eat food that is good for your heart, keeping saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol low and consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole... More
  2. Dr. Douglas Severance
     
    To manage your atrial fibrillation on a daily basis, it's important to become educated about the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment of this condition. Ask your doctor for literature about atrial fibrillation. Learn about risk factors that you can change, including lowering your blood pressure, losing weight, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, quitting smoking, and managing your emotional stress.

    Know the symptoms of atrial fibrillation,  such as an irregular heartbeat or difficulty breathing with physical activity, so you can call your doctor if you experience them. Learn about medications like anti-coagulants (such as warfarin) to help prevent blood clots and strokes, and also about medications that slow down your heart rate.
    More Related Answers from Dr. Douglas Severance
    To manage your atrial fibrillation on a daily basis, it's important to become educated about the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment of this condition. Ask your doctor for literature about atrial fibrillation. Learn about risk factors that... More
  3. Intermountain Healthcare
     
    You can help manage atrial fibrillation -- or prevent it from recurring -- by taking care of your general heart health. Follow these tips:
    • If you use tobacco, stop. Talk to your doctor about making a plan.
    • Limit alcohol. Avoid alcohol completely if you are taking a blood thinner -- alcohol can interfere with this medication.
    • If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar. Take medication or work with your doctor to manage your diet.
    • Exercise regularly and eat a heart-healthy diet focused on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein.
    • Avoid caffeine and substances with stimulants that can increase your heartbeat. These may include diet aids, energy drinks, and cold or allergy remedies.
    • Be a strong partner in your health by keeping your medical appointments, asking your doctor questions to learn more about your condition and treatment, and taking medications as directed.
    More Related Answers from Intermountain Healthcare
    You can help manage atrial fibrillation -- or prevent it from recurring -- by taking care of your general heart health. Follow these tips: If you use tobacco, stop. Talk to your doctor about making a plan. Limit alcohol. Avoid alcohol... More