First person: Lifestyle changes, regular check-ups can protect heart rhythm

Cardiac arrhythmia is a condition where a person suffers from irregular heartbeat, which can be very fast or too slow, or even irregular. While some arrhythmias may be harmless, others may be potentially life threatening, increasing the risk of serious complications like a stroke, heart attack or even cardiac arrest.

What makes arrythmia overtly dangerous is that it often progresses silently. People often dismiss symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations or even chest discomfort, attributing them to stress or exertion. However, these symptoms are often signs of an underlying rhythmic heartbeat disorder.

Nowadays, we are increasingly seeing many young patients coming in with rhythm-related issues. Most of these cases can be largely attributed to modern lifestyle related risk factors. A healthy lifestyle plays a key role in preventing and managing arrhythmias.

Regularly exercise, a balanced diet low in saturated fats and high in fibre, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol intake can significantly reduce the risk of arrhythmias. One should also focus on managing stress through mindfulness, yoga or deep breathing. It is vital to monitor and control existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes or thyroid disorders under medical guidance to prevent further escalation of heartbeat irregularity.

The key lies in not ignoring the signs. Regular cardiac check-ups, especially for those with high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of heart disease, are crucial. Early intervention and small lifestyle changes can go a long way in protecting your heart rhythm — and your life. If a person experiences any of these symptoms, he/she should immediately consult a cardiologist.