Stress has been known to cause irregular heartbeats. In stressful situations, your
body releases
adrenaline, a hormone that causes an increase in heart rate. And adrenaline can interfere
with the electrical system of the heart. This isn't good for someone with atrial
filbrillation (AFib), a condition in which the heart's electrical system is already
not working the way it should.
Try looking at the different aspects of your life—home, work, social relationships—to
identify sources of stress. This can be the first step toward reducing it.
Exercise every day.
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Exercise reduces adrenaline. And exercise doesn't have to be strenuous to be beneficial.
It can be as simple as a walk out to the mailbox. In fact, one recent study showed
that the incidence of AFib was 22 percent lower for those who walked 5 to 11 blocks
per week compared to those walked fewer than 5 blocks per week. |
Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Practice breathing.
Breathing exercises help relax the body and focus the mind. Try taking a little
time every day to sit in a chair and practice deep, regular breathing.
Get plenty of sleep.
Sleeping is as important to our health as food, water, and air. It gives the body
an opportunity to recharge. To help get a good night's sleep, check your bedroom
for ways to make your room more comfortable. It could be something as simple as
a better pillow, or getting heavier curtains to block streetlights and noise.
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
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We all know that smoking is bad for your health. Smoking raises blood pressure,
which increases the risk of stroke. Alcohol can also make AFib worse. So it's recommended
that you do not smoke or drink alcohol when you have AFib. |
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Important Safety Information
Do not take MULTAQ if you have severe heart failure
or if you have been in the hospital recently for heart failure, even if you are
better now. People with severe heart failure who take MULTAQ have an increased chance
of dying.
Call your doctor immediately if you're taking MULTAQ and feel symptoms of worsening
heart failure. These may include weight gain, leg swelling, and increasing shortness
of breath while resting.
You should not take MULTAQ if you have severe liver problems.
You should not take MULTAQ if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or plan to become
pregnant as it is not known if it may pass to or harm your baby.
Your potassium levels should be within the normal range prior to and while taking
MULTAQ. Tell your doctor about any diuretic medications you are taking as some can
lower the level of potassium or magnesium in your blood.
Your doctor may perform certain tests, such as heart exams and blood tests, while
you're taking MULTAQ.
MULTAQ can interact with certain medications and herbal supplements. Do not use
the following medications with MULTAQ:
- Nefazodone
- Voriconazole
- Ritonavir
- Telithromycin
- Ketoconazole
- Clarithromycin
- Itraconazole
- Cyclosporine
The following medicines can lead to a dangerous abnormal heart rhythm if taken with
MULTAQ:
- Phenothiazines
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Certain medicines used to treat abnormal heart rhythm or fast heartbeat
- Certain antibiotics
Please read the accompanying Medication Guide and tell your doctor about all medications
you take to help avoid serious drug interactions. Do not drink grapefruit juice
while taking MULTAQ.
The most common side effects when taking MULTAQ are diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain,
skin rash, and slowed heartbeat.
Full Prescribing Information Including Boxed Warning
MULTAQ Medication Guide (English)
Guía del Medicamento de MULTAQ (Español)
Click here for information on drug anti-counterfeiting
Remember, your doctor is the single best source of information regarding your health.
Please consult your doctor if you have any questions about your health or your medicine.
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