Atrial Fibrillation: Prevention

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Prevention

A healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, treatment for high blood pressure, and other measures can prevent atrial fibrillation by protecting you from heart disease. Do not smoke, try to lower your stress, exercise more, and control your blood pressure.

Experts also recommend that adults eat at least two servings of fish per week, particularly fish such as salmon, trout, and tuna, for a healthy heart. Also, one study found that eating baked or broiled fish may reduce your risk for developing atrial fibrillation.¹¹ For more information, see the topic Coronary Artery Disease.

Avoid medications, alcohol, and stimulants—such as caffeine or nicotine—that may contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation.

Take antibiotics when directed to do so by your doctor to lower your chance of getting a heart infection (endocarditis). Infection in the heart may lead to atrial fibrillation. For more information, see the topic Endocarditis.

Because atrial fibrillation raises your risk for stroke and many people do not have symptoms of atrial fibrillation, the U.S. National Stroke Association recommends that everyone, particularly those ages 55 and older and those who have other stroke risk factors, check his or her heartbeat once a month. To learn how to check your pulse, see taking your pulse . If you notice that your heartbeat does not have a regular rhythm, talk to your doctor.

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Last updated:	January 18, 2007
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Laurence Epstein, MD - Cardiac Electrophysiologist
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman