The heart, situated in our chest, symbolises vitality and a robust heart is crucial for overall well-being. It beats rhythmically, a constant presence in our lives. Yet, occasionally, it experiences arrhythmia, a condition disrupting its normal rhythm.
Normally, our hearts beat in a steady rhythm, but arrhythmia disrupts this pattern, caused by faulty electrical impulses that control heartbeats. It can result in either slow beats, known as bradycardia, or rapid beats, termed tachycardia. Although it’s natural for the heart rate to fluctuate during different activities, consistent irregularities could signal arrhythmia.
Arrhythmia symptoms encompass sensations like skipped heartbeats, fluttering in the chest or neck, and rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat. Additionally, individuals may feel weak, dizzy, fatigued, sweaty, or experience chest tightness. Causes of arrhythmia include heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, heavy alcohol intake, specific medications, and congenital heart issues.
Its treatment options are diverse and personalised, including medication, surgical procedures like implanting devices to regulate heartbeats, and interventions addressing electrical signal problems. Embracing a healthier lifestyle is also advised to reduce aggravating factors associated with arrhythmia.
Managing life with arrhythmia involves several key steps:
Adhere to Medication: Take prescribed medications consistently as directed by your doctor. Don’t alter dosages or frequency without consulting them first. Report any new symptoms or side effects promptly.
Monitor Your Pulse: Learn how to check your pulse, especially if you have a pacemaker. Place your fingers on your inner wrist or neck and count the beats per minute. Keep a record of your pulse, along with the date, time, and how you felt during that period.
Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate daily exercise to enhance cardiovascular health, following your doctor’s recommendations.
Nutritious Diet: Embrace a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Incorporating chia seeds, flax seeds, and hemp seeds can also support heart health.
