or slowing heart rate or a heart pounding. More severe symptoms may include chest pain, sweating, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, fatigue, and dizziness or fainting. If these more severe symptoms occur, they should be addressed immediately.
Heart arrhythmia treatments
Heart arrhythmias are often harmless and don’t need to be treated, according to the AHA. Before that can be decided, a doctor must be aware of the issue and determine an underlying cause. If it is determined that treatment needs to happen, they may suggest several different options:
- Increased physical activity, reduced caffeine or alcohol intake, and stress management
- Heart arrhythmia medications or changes in medications that may be causing the symptoms
- Surgery to remove blockages or correct defects may be recommended. Surgery may also be needed to implant devices such as a pacemaker, which keeps the heart beating at a proper pace
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How to prevent heart arrhythmia
The AHA also suggests heart arrhythmias can be prevented with heart-healthy habits:
- A heart-healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, fiber and plenty of water
- Regular exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise
- Weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight
- Quit smoking and other drugs
- Limiting or avoiding caffeine and alcohol
- Practicing stress management and reducing anxiety
- Using medications as directed and tell your doctor about all the medicines or supplements you take, including those bought without a prescription