I would like to thank Lynne for asking about natural treatments for atrial fibrillation (a-fib). A-fib is the most common form of irregular heartbeat. Its frequency increases with age especially after the age of 70. Patients usually complain of palpitations and fatigue which leads to testing and an eventual diagnosis. Unlike ventricular fibrillation atrial fibrillation by itself is not fatal but can cause complications. For example people with a-fib have a higher risk of stroke. Patients usually undergo treatment to control their symptoms of fatigue, chest pain, irregular pulse, lightheadedness, and etc.
Other than undergoing surgery natural approaches are similar to conventional medical interventions with a few additional interventions. Conventional care focuses on anti-coagulation to prevent blood clots in patients with irregular heartbeats. For a truly holistic approach I would want to improve blood flow to the heart because during increased heart rates the energy demand goes up. If the heart’s blood flow is decreased due to things like heart disease or smoking then the risk for complications of irregular heartbeats increases. I would support the mitochondria to increase energy production. Also I would look at natural ways of slowing nerve impulses, decreasing stimulants in the diet, and really trying to improve the patients vascular health. By supporting the person’s body they are potentially able to decrease their risk of stroke, heart attack, and other symptoms.
