Taking control of your AFib risk involves a proactive, heart-healthy lifestyle to reduce symptoms, prevent complications like stroke, and lower the burden of arrhythmia. Key strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol and caffeine, managing stress, and quitting smoking.
Why Is Rhythm Control Important?
There are several important reasons to consider rhythm control as part of your AFib treatment.
- Rhythm control can reduce the number of AFib episodes or the amount of time you are in AFib. This may decrease symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Having fewer symptoms can mean fewer healthcare visits to the emergency department or your doctor’s office.
- Keeping the heart in a regular rhythm helps slow down changes in the heart’s structure that can weaken the heart muscle and cause fluid buildup.
- Rhythm control may also decrease the risk of stroke or death.
To find out more or locate a specialist in your area, visit UpBeat.org.