REGULAR FOLLOW-UP VISITS
It’s important to have regular checkups to make sure atrial fibrillation has not returned. In some cases, individuals need a repeat procedure. Even without symptoms, atrial fibrillation can be a serious medical condition. If atrial fibrillation is not treated, it may lead to a stroke, heart failure, or fatigue.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Some lifestyle changes may help prevent further atrial fibrillation:
- Maintain a healthy weight. Reduce calorie intake and get more exercise.
- Stop nicotine use. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and forces the heart to work harder. Carbon monoxide may damage the lining of the blood vessels.
- Manage your blood pressure. Check the blood pressure regularly. Follow doctor’s orders and take all prescribed medications as directed.
- Manage your cholesterol. Have the cholesterol checked regularly. Eat fewer high-cholesterol foods, and take cholesterol-lowering medication if needed.
- Keep diabetes under control. Controlling the blood sugar levels may help slow the progression of coronary artery disease.
- Get moving. Exercise may help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. It may also help control diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Try to get 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. As with all exercise programs, seek the advice of your doctor before you start.
- Eat healthy foods. A heart-healthy diet based on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains - and low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium - may help manage the weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
- Manage stress. Reduce stress as much as possible. Practice healthy techniques for managing stress such as muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and exercise.
- Treat sleep apnea or thyroid disorders. Sleep apnea or a thyroid disorder, it’s important to get treatment since these may contribute to atrial fibrillation.