Before you reach for another chocolate in that gigantic heart-shaped box, take a moment to talk with your Valentine about his or her health history. It might just save your loved one’s life.More than 2.5 million Americans suffer from atrial fibrillation (AFib), which is an irregular heart rhythm. Left untreated, AFib can lead to serious health complications such as stroke and even heart failure.
As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the number of AFib cases is on the rise and is projected to double by 2035. Today, approximately eight out of 100 people over the age of 65 are diagnosed with AFib. By age 40, however, both men and women are prime targets for developing the condition.
Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to manage your risk. That includes being aware of symptoms, asking questions about your family health history and developing healthier eating and drinking habits.
Recognizing symptoms
The easiest way to uncover a possibly dangerous irregular heart rhythm is to check your pulse. The National Stroke Association urges all Baby Boomers to learn how to take a reading.
Other indications that could signal AFib include:
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- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Trouble with exercise and everyday activities
- Pain, pressure or chest discomfort
- Dizziness
Knowing Your Risk
Since AFib is hereditary, talking about your family medical history will help you and your physician identify your risk early on. That will give you more time to make lifestyle adjustments that could decrease your chances of developing AFib, as well as to initiate any necessary treatments.
The prevalence of AFib also increases with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, COPD, obesity and constructive sleep apnea, so be sure to find out if any relatives have been affected by these diseases or conditions.
How to start the conversation:
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- Be direct. Explain to your relatives why you are asking about health problems that run
- in the family.
- Acknowledge (and celebrate) the differences between generations. Tell your family about the growing incidence of AFib among Boomers.
- Be discreet. Depending on the situation, it may be best to talk with a family member in private. Consider their feelings and manage your approach accordingly.
- Pass it on. Share your medical history with your family members and encourage them to do the same with other relatives.
Living Healthier
With the holiday parties of the past couple months, many of us altered our alcohol intake and diet – and most not for the better. Both of these factors influence one’s risk for AFib. In fact, physicians have observed a syndrome nicknamed “Holiday Heart,” in which an otherwise healthy person experiences AFib following a weekend of heavy alcohol use.
If you overindulged, now is the time to get back on track and reintroduce healthier habits—starting with Valentine’s Day. It’s fine to enjoy a few boxed chocolates or candy hearts, but limit consumption to one serving. Also, pay close attention to your alcohol consumption. The calories in wine, beer and other spirits add up quickly, and binge drinking can contribute to AFib.
Tips To Get Fit
- Stay active. Invite family and friends to exercise together before a big family meal or participate in a new sport such as family flag football.
- Get your seven a day. Enjoy fruits and vegetables each and every day.
- Avoid the sauce. Sauces made from cream, butter and meat drippings are often high in calories and fat.
- Treat yourself to one a day. Have either a dessert or appetizer—not both.
- Watch your plate size. Using a small plate can force you to cut calories.
- Watch the alcohol intake. It can add unwanted calories to your meal.
- Lighten your recipes. Use egg substitutes and fruit purees instead of butter, margarine or shortening, and increase fiber by using whole-wheat flour.
Loving Life with AFib
While AFib is a serious condition, it’s still possible to live a full life. Practicing moderation, maintaining a healthy diet and monitoring risk factors are key to managing an arrhythmia. Get to the heart of the matter this season and live longer with your Valentine!
Written by Charles Joyner, M.D.