An arrhythmia
is an irregular or abnormal heart rhythm. Most abnormal rhythms are harmless
and require no treatment. Bradycardia is a slow heartbeat whereas tachycardia
is the fast one. Some abnormal rhythms are more serious and even deadly,
particularly if you have multiple ones. The ticker not beating properly can
disrupt flow of blood, which can damage your heart, brain, or other organs. You
might want to try alternative treatments in addition to the conventional
treatment prescribed by your doctor if you have an arrhythmia. It is important
to discuss alternative treatment or complementary treatments with your doctor
as some can be harmful if used incorrectly.
Before talking
about the different types of alternative treatments, here’s some information on
the life-saving cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedure:
Cardiopulmonary
resuscitation is a life-saving procedure useful in many emergencies, including
a heart attack, cardiac arrest or near drowning, in which an individual’s
breathing or heartbeat has stopped. Select a certified training site for
acquiring training, such as the AHA certified CPR Kansas City. Certified instructors conduct the classes through
a series of audio and video lectures and hands-on practice. Courses for both
healthcare and non-healthcare providers are offered by CPR Kansas City. Become
certified at the end of the training classes after successfully passing a
skills test and written exam.
Alternative
treatment options for arrhythmia:
1.
According to the American Heart Association, eating fatty fish and
other foods with omega-3 fatty acids can lower the risk for cardiovascular
disease and also help prevent abnormal rhythms. The AHA recommends eating two
servings of fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, etc.
2.
Magnesium and potassium can stabilize your ticker. Your body not
having adequate magnesium can lead to an irregular heartbeat, irritability and
muscle weakness. On the other hand, too much magnesium can cause bradycardia,
blurred vision, dizziness and breathing difficulty. In addition to that, low
potassium may cause abnormal rhythm and muscle weakness.
3. Abnormal rhythms and
other heart conditions are related with oxidant stress and inflammation, which
can be reduced by antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Apart from treating
colds, the flu, and even cancer, vitamin C can also help with arrhythmia.
4.
Let’s talk about the herb hawthorn that people often use to treat
palpitations. Although studies of its effectiveness in treating arrhythmia are
inconclusive, some people use it to treat congestive heart failure and it may
also help with an irregular heartbeat.
5.
Other supplements that are sometimes recommended for arrhythmia
includes calcium, skullcap, valerian, etc. Research is ongoing to determine
their effectiveness.
Experts recommend avoiding supplements, such as cola nut, guarana,
creatine and ephedra, which can cause an arrhythmia. Prior to taking any form
of supplement, it’s crucial that you talk to your doctor as some herbal
supplements can have adverse reactions with certain prescription or
over-the-counter medications you may be taking. For example, magnesium should
be avoided if you have kidney failure, potassium can cause rash, vomiting,
nausea, etc. You shouldn’t take potassium if you have high blood pressure.
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