Beat Control: Taming Tachycardia, Treating Bradycardia for a Healthy Heart

Beat Control: Taming Tachycardia, Treating Bradycardia for a Healthy Heart

Taming the Beat: Managing Tachycardia and Bradycardia for Better Heart Health

07 Jun 2024

Your heart, the relentless drummer of your body, performs a delicate symphony of beats that keep you alive and well. But sometimes, these beats can go awry, leading to conditions known as tachycardia and bradycardia. Here, we will explore how managing tachycardia and bradycardia can improve heart health in India.

Tachycardia and bradycardia

Tachycardia and bradycardia are heart rhythm disorders that, if left unaddressed, can pose significant risks to your heart. Understanding these conditions and managing them is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart. In addition, we’ll also delve into the current scenario of heart attacks in India, shedding light on the risk factors and emerging causes.

Part 1: Calming the Accelerated Beat - Tachycardia Management

Tachycardia refers to a faster-than-normal heart rate, often exceeding 100 beats per minute at rest. Various factors, including stress, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions, can cause it. Here are some key points to consider for better heart health with tachycardia management:

Lifestyle Modifications

Stress Reduction

Stress Reduction
Stress is a significant trigger for tachycardia. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercise can help reduce stress and manage tachycardia.

Caffeine and Alcohol

Caffeine and Alcohol
Reducing the consumption of caffeine and alcohol can have a positive impact on heart health.

Healthy Diet and Exercise

Healthy Diet and Exercise
A balanced diet along with regular workouts are essential for maintaining heart health and can help manage tachycardia.

Medication and Medical Intervention

Consult a Cardiologist

Consult a Cardiologist
If you experience frequent or severe tachycardia episodes, it’s crucial to consult a cardiologist who can recommend appropriate medications or procedures.

Cardiac Ablation

Cardiac Ablation
Cardiac ablation is a technique used to identify small areas in your heart that may be involved in heart rhythm problems. The procedure requires heat or cold energy to form tiny scars in the heart to block irregular electrical signals and restore a heartbeat, as the aim is to correct heart rhythm problems.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) device

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) device
Some individuals with high risk of sudden cardiac arrest , as determined with some diagnostic tests performed by their physician requires this device to manage tachycardias.

Part 2: Embracing the Slower Beat - Bradycardia Management

On the opposite end of the spectrum, bradycardia is considered by an abnormally slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute. Aging, certain medications, or underlying heart conditions can cause it. Managing bradycardia is equally essential for better heart health:

Pacemakers

Pacemakers
In many cases of bradycardia, the best approach is implanting a pacemaker, a small device that helps regulate the heart’s rhythm.

Medication and Lifestyle Adjustments

Medication and Lifestyle Adjustments
Consult a Cardiologist. A cardiologist will assess your condition and recommend appropriate interventions.

Avoid Overexertion

Avoid Overexertion
People with bradycardia should avoid strenuous physical activities that may further slow the heart rate.

Regular Check-ups

Regular Check-ups
Routine check-ups with a cardiologist are essential to monitor your heart’s health and the performance of the pacemaker.

Conclusion

In India, where the problem of heart disease is substantial, understanding how to manage conditions like tachycardia and bradycardia is a vital step towards better heart health. Taking control of your heart’s rhythm and proactively addressing these issues can reduce your risk of heart disease. Furthermore, awareness of the evolving causes of heart attacks and the risk factors prevalent in India is essential for protecting your heart and overall well-being. Stay informed, make healthy choices, and consult a healthcare professional to secure a healthier heart and future.

Disclaimer: The information presented by Boston Scientific India is for educational purposes only and does not recommend self-management of health issues. The information should not be treated as comprehensive and does not intend to provide diagnosis, treatment or any medical advice. Individual results may vary and hence, it is advisable to consult your doctor regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.

IC-1849803AA-0324