What you should do if have an abnormal heartbeat?
1. Remain Calm and Sit Down:If you experience an abnormal heartbeat, try to remain calm and avoid panicking. Sit down in a comfortable position to reduce anxiety and get into a relaxed state.
2. Check Your Pulse:
Take your pulse to assess the regularity and speed of your heartbeat. Counting your pulse for a full 60 seconds can provide more accurate information. Use a watch, clock, or the pulse feature on your smartwatch or fitness tracker to count the beats per minute (BPM).
3. Monitor the Duration:
Pay attention to how long the abnormal heartbeat lasts. Keep track of the starting time and note if the irregular heart rhythm persists for a few seconds or several minutes.
4. Look for Other Symptoms:
Besides the abnormal heartbeat, be aware of any accompanying symptoms you might be experiencing. Common symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, or nausea.
5. Take Deep Breaths:
Deep breathing can help slow down a fast heart rate or regulate an irregular rhythm. Try breathing in and out slowly and deeply for several minutes.
6. Perform a Valsalva Maneuver:
The Valsalva maneuver can sometimes help stop certain types of arrhythmias. To do this, blow gently through your mouth as if fogging up a mirror, while holding your nose closed and keeping your mouth shut. This creates pressure in your chest and may help restore a normal heartbeat.
7. Seek Medical Advice:
If your abnormal heartbeat persists for several minutes, if it's accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or dizziness, or if it's causing you significant distress, seek medical attention promptly. Call emergency services or visit the nearest hospital.
8. Keep a Symptom Log:
It can be helpful to keep a record of your abnormal heartbeats. Note the date, time, duration, and any associated symptoms. This information can assist your doctor in making a diagnosis.
Remember, diagnosing and treating abnormal heartbeats requires medical expertise, so it's important to consult with a healthcare professional if your heart rate or rhythm is abnormal. They can provide appropriate treatment and management strategies tailored to your specific condition.