Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart condition affecting millions worldwide. AFib occurs when the heart’s electrical signals become irregular, causing the heart’s upper chambers to beat out of sync with the lower chambers.
This can lead to various symptoms, including palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. While AFib can be managed with medications and other treatments, it is always better to prevent it from happening in the first place.
In this article, we will provide five tips to help avoid atrial fibrillation and discuss the importance of the Eliquis discount card for managing AFib.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the most critical steps to prevent AFib. This includes eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
A healthy diet is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Eating various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help lower the risk of heart disease and AFib. Foods high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium should be limited as they can contribute to high blood pressure, a risk factor for AFib.
Regular physical activity is also essential for maintaining heart health. Exercise can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and maintain a healthy weight, all of which can reduce the risk of AFib. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week for adults.
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of AFib. Smoking damages the blood vessels and can lead to the development of heart disease, while excessive alcohol consumption can cause high blood pressure and damage to the heart muscle. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of AFib and improve overall health.
Manage Underlying Health Conditions
Several underlying health conditions can increase the risk of AFib, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Managing these conditions can help reduce the risk of developing AFib.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common risk factor for AFib. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, and lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting salt intake can help manage high blood pressure. Medications such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers may also be prescribed to lower blood pressure.
Diabetes is another condition that can increase the risk of AFib. Individuals with diabetes should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their blood sugar levels and other risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. It is also a risk factor for AFib. Treatment for sleep apnea may include lifestyle changes such as weight loss and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, as well as the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to keep the airway open during sleep.
Take Medications as Prescribed
For individuals who have already been diagnosed with AFib, taking medications as prescribed is essential for managing the condition and reducing the risk of complications such as stroke. Medications commonly used to treat AFib include anticoagulants, which help prevent blood clots, and antiarrhythmic drugs, which help regulate the heart rhythm.
Eliquis is an anticoagulant medication that reduces the risk of stroke and blood clots in individuals with AFib. It can cause side effects such as bleeding. It is important to take Eliquis as prescribed and inform your healthcare provider if you experience side effects.
Managing the cost of medications such as Eliquis can be a challenge for some individuals. The Eliquis discount card is a program that can help eligible patients save on the cost of their Eliquis prescription.
The card offers savings of up to 80% off the retail price of Eliquis, making it more affordable for individuals who may struggle to cover the cost of their medication. To be eligible for the Eliquis discount card, individuals must have commercial insurance covering prescription medication costs.
It is important to note that the Eliquis discount card cannot be combined with other insurance or government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Additionally, the card is not valid for uninsured or underinsured individuals. However, for those who are eligible, the savings offered by the Eliquis discount card can make a significant difference in managing the cost of their medication.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Drinking alcohol in excess can harm the heart and increase the risk of developing AFib. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause an irregular heartbeat and damage the heart muscle over time. The American Heart Association recommends that women limit their alcohol intake to one drink per day and men to no more than two drinks per day. The standard glass is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. By limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels, individuals can reduce their risk of developing AFib.
Manage Stress
High stress and anxiety levels can also increase the risk of developing AFib. When a person experiences stress, the body releases hormones that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, triggering AFib episodes.
Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Exercise is also an effective way to manage stress and promote heart health. Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels, improve heart health, and lower the risk of developing AFib.
Atrial Fibrillation is a severe heart condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While treatments are available for managing AFib, it is always better to prevent it from happening in the first place.
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress, you can reduce your risk of developing AFib and improve your overall heart health.
Additionally, for those who are living with AFib, managing the condition can be expensive. That is why the Eliquis discount card is such an important tool. It can help patients save money on their prescription medications from therxadvocates.com and ensure they have access to the treatments they need to manage their AFib effectively.
Remember, prevention is critical, but for those who are living with AFib, effective management is essential. By working closely with your healthcare provider and following a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of developing AFib and lead a healthy, happy life.
