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Atrial Fibrillation Treatment
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a common type of arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, that affects millions of people worldwide. In this condition, the two upper chambers of your heart (the atria) experience chaotic electrical signals, leading to rapid and irregular heartbeats. As a result, your heart doesn’t pump efficiently, and you may experience symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, or even shortness of breath.
For some, atrial fibrillation may be a temporary condition. However, for many, it is a long-term health concern that requires ongoing management. Dr. Cynthia is here to help guide you through understanding your condition and selecting the right treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. By addressing your atrial fibrillation, Dr. Cynthia can work with you to ease your symptoms and improve your overall heart health. It is estimated that between 2.7 million and 6.1 million people in the United States have AFib. AFib may happen in brief episodes, or it may be a permanent condition.
Manage atrial fibrillation treatments the natural way with a naturopathic approach cardiologist specializing in afib. Explore holistic treatments for Afib here! Why consider natural remedies for Afib treatments? One of the common questions from our patients is, “I don’t want to take drugs. What are my alternative natural remedies for atrial fibrillation?” We also receive similar questions from caregivers and spouses of Afib patients.
To discuss your AFib concerns and explore natural treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia today or Book Online Telehealth Appointment.
Signs and Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation can present itself with or without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Heart palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering)
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting or near-fainting
- Weakness or fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty exercising or decreased stamina
The severity and frequency of symptoms can vary. They may be persistent or occur intermittently. If you notice any changes in your heart rhythm or experience any of the symptoms above, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia to assess your condition and discuss potential next steps.
What Happens if I Don’t Treat Atrial Fibrillation?
Untreated atrial fibrillation can lead to serious health complications. Without proper care, the irregular heartbeat can increase your risk for:
- Heart Failure: A condition where your heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs.
- Stroke: Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart, which can travel to the brain, causing a stroke.
- Heart Attack: Irregular rhythms can contribute to other heart-related issues, including coronary artery disease.
Natural Remedies and Supplements for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Dr. Cynthia encourages all patients to regularly monitor their condition with either in-person or telehealth appointments. By staying proactive and following a personalized treatment plan, we can reduce the risk of complications and help you maintain a healthy heart.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a complex condition that often requires medical intervention. While there is no quick “cure” for AFib, several natural approaches can help manage the condition, reduce symptoms, and potentially prevent episodes. Below are some strategies that may support heart health and help manage atrial fibrillation naturally. Managing atrial fibrillation (AFib) often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes natural supplements. Certain natural remedies and supplements have been shown to support cardiovascular health and help manage the symptoms of AFib. Dr. Cynthia offers telehealth consultations to guide you through these natural approaches and tailor a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs. Below are some of the most researched and effective natural remedies for AFib:
1. Fish Oil for AFib
One of the best natural remedies for atrial fibrillation is fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s provide several cardiovascular benefits:
- Reduce inflammation and lower triglycerides.
- Stabilize plaque in arterial walls, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Improve blood flow by decreasing blood viscosity, which helps prevent clot formation.
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids may be linked to a reduced risk of AFib episodes and sudden cardiac death. Dr. Cynthia can help you determine the right dosage of fish oil supplements or suggest dietary sources like fatty fish (salmon, sardines, tuna) to increase your omega-3 intake.
2. Magnesium for AFib
Magnesium is another powerful nutrient that supports cardiovascular health. It has been shown to:
- Prevent AFib episodes and support healthy heart rhythms.
- Improve Heart Rate Variability (HRV), which is a measure of heart health and nervous system balance.
- Regulate electrical conduction in the heart, reducing the risk of arrhythmias.
If you’re deficient in magnesium, supplementation may be beneficial. Dr. Cynthia can guide you on the proper dosage and help you incorporate magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds into your diet.
3. Choline for AFib
Choline is an essential nutrient that supports cardiovascular function by:
- Lowering homocysteine levels, which are associated with increased stroke risk and heart disease.
- Promoting acetylcholine production, a neurotransmitter important for regulating heart function.
Choline-rich foods include egg yolks, meat, cruciferous vegetables, and dairy. If you’re not getting enough choline through diet, supplementation may be recommended. Dr. Cynthia can help you determine the right approach for incorporating choline into your diet or supplement regimen.
4. Stress Management and Mindfulness
Chronic stress can be a major trigger for AFib episodes. Managing stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help reduce the frequency of AFib episodes. Practices such as:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Yoga or Tai Chi
- Breathing exercises
These practices activate the parasympathetic nervous system and promote heart health. Dr. Cynthia offers telehealth consultations where you can also receive guidance from a mindfulness coach, helping you reduce stress and improve your heart rhythm naturally.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Diet and Exercise
A healthy diet and regular exercise are fundamental in managing AFib:
- Dietary Changes: A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support heart function and help prevent AFib episodes. Limiting caffeine and alcohol is also crucial.
- Exercise: Moderate-intensity exercise, like walking or swimming, can help improve heart health, reduce stress, and enhance cardiovascular function. Dr. Cynthia will work with you to develop an exercise plan that suits your heart health.
Schedule Your Telehealth Consultation with Dr. Cynthia
If you’re living with atrial fibrillation and want to explore natural treatment options, Dr. Cynthia is here to help. She provides telehealth consultations to guide you through personalized care plans, addressing lifestyle changes, supplement use, and stress management techniques tailored to your unique health needs.
Dr. Cynthia Thaik will perform a thorough cardiovascular assessment, looking at cardiac function, ruling out structural damage, checking paroxysmal atrial fibrillation symptoms, assessing the adverse effects of hypertension and dietary toxicity (alcohol, caffeine, excessive inflammatory foods), checking for vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, and exploring the impact of stress on arterial tone and the autonomic nervous system regulation of the cardiovascular system.
The patient will have an option to receive individual coaching from a mindfulness instructor. Together, this integrative team approach to Afib will provide the patient with the best opportunity to address the root causes underlying the atrial fibrillation and hopefully restore normal sinus rhythm. As with all health conditions, our goal is to help Afib patients transition from symptoms and disease care to optimal health and wellness – true preventive cardiology.
If you have been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation and are looking for natural treatments, Schedule a virtual visit or call for Telehealth Appointment at (818) 842 1410
Frequently Asked Questions
In some cases, lifestyle changes and natural therapies can help reduce AFib episodes. However, always consult your cardiologist before stopping any prescribed medication.
Fish oil, magnesium, and choline have been shown to support cardiovascular function. Dr. Cynthia customizes supplement plans based on your needs.
Yes. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate cortisol levels and disrupt your heart rhythm. Managing stress through mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can help reduce AFib triggers.
Limit caffeine, alcohol, high-sodium foods, and processed items. Avoid excessive consumption of stimulants or inflammatory foods that can irritate the cardiovascular system.
