It is projected that by 2030 there
will be more than 12 million individuals living with atrial fibrillation in
the United States.
In fact, it's such a concern that
some medical professionals suggest it's reaching epidemic proportions within the baby boomer generation
in Europe and North America.
Atrial fibrillation symptoms can be
frightening and lead to potentially fatal medical complications if not treated
and managed properly. It isn't a death sentence though. Millions of people live
active, healthy lives after a diagnosis of Afib.
The key is to be proactive in your
own life. Make lifestyle changes that can improve your quality (and quantity)
of life.
Keep reading for three expert tips
for living with atrial fibrillation and living your best life.
Knowledge
is Power When Living With Atrial Fibrillation
You can't make informed decisions if
you don't have all the information you need. You don't have to be overwhelmed
by a diagnosis of Afib. when there are many resources, experts, and options
available to provide support.
Ask
Questions
You probably will have a list of
questions that cross your mind after your initial diagnosis. Most patients
don't think of them until long after they walk out of the doctor's office or
disconnect from their zoom appointment with them.
Write down any questions you think
of or create a voice memo on your cellphone so that you can refer to it when
you're at your next appointment. You can always call your doctor's office and
request some time to go over the concerns you have. See here for some answers on how it feels to have atrial
fibrillation.
Pharmacists are a great resource
when it comes to any medications or treatments you may need to take for Afib.
Make sure to ask them any questions you have about your medications and don't
be afraid to give the pharmacy a call if you have concerns with a prescription.
You may need to reduce or restrict
certain foods, discuss drug interactions and side effects, or have to avoid
sunlight, alcohol, citrus or other things because of certain prescription.
Pharmacists can help ensure you know
exactly what you need to know about each treatment or prescription you receive.
They are probably one of the least accessed and utilized expert resources we
have in healthcare today.
Be
Honest
You have to be honest with yourself
and your healthcare team if you want to have the best quality of life possible.
It's tough to change habits and routines. Your healthcare team can't offer you
the best support and resources for you if they don't know what challenges you
face.
Addictions and stress can have a
huge effect on the prognosis of those with atrial fibrillation. Whether it's a
lifelong love of fatty foods, a passion for sugar, or a fondness of alcohol and
street drugs, your doctor can't help you be healthy if you don't address the
issues that are causing the most risk.
Slow
and Steady Wins the Race
Your biggest defence against atrial
fibrillation will be consistently making healthier choices. It's not about
stopping everything unhealthy immediately and starting an army regime of
fitness. That kind of approach often leads to stress, misery, and a feeling of
failure.
Making consistent small healthy
choices to lead to a longterm lifestyle transformation can have the best
results. Start with a walk and then work up to jogging. Eat one healthy meal a
day and work your way up to three instead of changing everything you eat in an
instant.
You
Can Be Your Own Hero
You have the power to live your best
life even if you are living with atrial fibrillation. You can be your own hero
by asking the right questions, being honest, and making small consistent
changes to your daily life. Take it one moment and one choice at a time to get
the longest-lasting success.
Don't forget to bookmark our site
for all our tips for living your best life.
