Browse Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Preventing Arrhythmias

To help prevent arrhythmias:

Treat underlying conditions that might lead to arrhythmias.
Avoid substances that might trigger or worsen an arrhythmia, including:
- Caffeinated beverages
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Certain medications
Follow general advice for preventing the development of heart disease, including:
- Maintain an appropriate weight.
- Consult your doctor about a safe exercise program.
- Do not smoke. If you smoke, quit.
- Eat a healthful diet, one that is low in saturated fat and rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Appropriately treat your high blood pressure and/or diabetes.
- Ask your doctor if you should take cholesterol-lowering medications.

RESOURCES:

American Heart Association
http://www.americanheart.org

Texas Heart Institute
http://www.texasheartinstitute.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Cardiovascular Society
http://www.ccs.ca/home/index_e.aspx

Canadian Family Physician
http://www.cfpc.ca/cfp/

References:

Arrhythmia. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=10845 . Accessed November 16, 2006.

Braunwald E, Zipes DP, Libby P, et al. Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2001.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/ . Accessed October 6, 2005.

Tracy CM, Akhtar M, DiMarco JP, et al. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical competence statement on invasive electrophysiology studies, catheter ablation, and cardioversion: A report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine task force on clinical competence. Circulation. 2000;102:2309.

Weber BE, Kapoor WN. Evaluation and outcomes of patients with palpitations. Am J Med. 1996;100:138.

Last reviewed November 2008 by Michael J. Fucci, DO

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Talk about it in the:
Arrhythmias Support Group

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