Tips for Living with AFib

 July 26, 2018

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a kind of heart rhythm irregularity, or arrhythmia. In fact, it is the most experienced kind of arrhythmia.
When a person has AFib, the body’s electrical system is malfunctioning and sending chaotic signals to the heart, causing it to beat out of rhythm. An older adult with the condition may feel like there’s a fluttering in their chest. AFib can also make the heart beat very fast or feel like the heart is skipping a beat. Although there are treatments for AFib, living with the condition may require the senior to alter their lives a bit to stay as healthy as possible. Below are some tips for living with AFib.

Encourage the Senior to Be Honest

It’s common for people to withhold information from their doctors because they think it’s trivial or because of fear. However, it’s very important for your aging relative to tell their doctor how having AFib is affecting their life. They should tell the doctor if they have cut back on activities because they are afraid of having problems due to their condition. They should also be honest about how they are feeling, reporting any issues or symptoms they are experiencing.

Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet

AFib is a heart condition, so staying healthy requires following a diet that promotes good heart health. A heart-healthy diet is one that is:

• Low in fat.
• Low in sodium.
• Rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

Know AFib Triggers

Certain things can trigger symptoms of AFibs. It’s important that the older adult and their caregivers be aware of them and avoid them. Some common triggers are:

• Drinking excessive alcohol.
• Caffeine.
• Missing medication doses.
• Smoking.
• Infections.
• Avoid Stress

Stress can bring on an episode of AFib. Unfortunately, having a condition like AFib can be stressful, so it can be difficult to control stress. However, you can help them to reduce stress as much as possible. One thing you can do is to encourage the senior to use relaxation techniques, like:

• Deep breathing exercises.
• Meditation.
• Yoga.
• Massage.
• Seek the Support of Elderly Care

 

People with AFib need the support of family, friends, and other caring individuals, like elderly care providers. Not only is the disease stressful to live with, but it can also make certain activities difficult. The older adult may feel too tired at times to keep up with daily activities, like cleaning or cooking. Elderly care providers can take the pressure of needing to do those tasks off your aging relative by doing them for the person. Having an elderly care provider around can also make the senior feel safer, knowing they have help available if it is needed.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering Senior Care in Oakland, PA, please contact the caring staff at In-Home Quality Care today.
Serving the Greater Pittsburgh Area since 1990! Call 412-421-5202

Sources

Webmd.com
Cardiosmart.org
Mayoclinic.org