Whenever you see something extraordinarily good or enchanting, your heart skips a beat that shows emotion. But if you feel like skipping heartbeats, it is a sign of caution. Your racing heartbeats and sensations of pounding heart are palpitations. As this issue is heart-related, medical attention may be required but first, try these home remedies to control heart palpitations. These are backed by science and found effective in stopping these sensations. The common causes of heart palpitations are:
- An underlying heart ailment such as heart attack or heart failure(in rare cases)
- Atrial fibrillation
- Thyroid
- Arrhythmias or abnormal rhythm of the heart
Home Remedies To Control Heart Palpitations
Reduce your intake of stimulants
The symptoms of heart palpitations intensify with the intake of stimulants which are commonly found in drugs, tobacco products, medicine for cough & cold, appetite suppressants, caffeine, medicines of blood pressure, aerated beverages, etc. However, it is not necessary that these trigger palpitations in every person. Whenever you sense something fishy, stop consuming the aforesaid products.
Also Read: Don’t Let The Mercury Drop Cause Your Heart Beats To Fall, Says Dr Niraj Kumar
Maintain Hydration
Dehydration is a common cause of multiple health problems including heart palpitations. Due to less water content in the body, the pressure on the heart for blood circulation increases which gives rise to palpitations. To prevent such conditions, one must maintain the body's hydration level by drinking water throughout the day. You must drink water when you notice any of the following:
- Dark yellow urine
- Dry mouth
- An abnormal increase in heart rate
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dry skin
Practice relaxation techniques
Stress is catastrophic for your overall health, heart health being at major risk. Taking excessive stress can worsen the condition if you are getting heart palpitations. To relax your mind, practice the following techniques:
- Deep breathing
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Exercises
- Reviving your hobby
- Playing with pets
- Journaling
Try vagal maneuvers
There is a nerve named 'Vagus' which connects the heart and brain. To control palpitations, it is necessary to control the brain. Thus, for that purpose, the stimulating vagus nerve can be helpful. Here are some proven ways to stimulate this connecting nerve:
- Coughing hardly
- Gagging
- Hold your breath and then push in towards the stomach
- Splash ice cold water on the face
- Place ice cubes on the face
- Take a shower with cold water
- Chant 'Om' 1008 times
Restrict alcohol consumption
Alcohol is anyway bad for health. It is suggested to not drink in excess as it deteriorates health in several ways. Some researchers state that even one peg drinking is harmful to people who are getting heart palpitations. This may augment the problem and cause atrial fibrillation. Better to control your alcohol consumption immediately.
Also Read: Arrhythmia Is Not The Only Reason For Deaths, But Sudden Fainting Is: Explains Dr Vanita Arora
Restoring electrolyte balance in the body
This might sound technical to you but it is necessary to maintain the electrolyte balance in the body to allow electrical signals to reach all the parts of the body. This mechanism is very important for proper heart functions. Some electrolytes are vital for your health such as:
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Calcium
These can be easily obtained from the diet. Here is what foods to eat to restore the balance of each electrolyte:
- Sodium: salt, canned soups, deli meats
- Potassium: Banana, avocado, sweet potato, spinach, etc.
- Magnesium: Fish, nuts, dark leafy green vegetables
- Calcium: Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cottage cheese (paneer)
In some cases, doctors also recommend electrolytic supplements to restore the balance. But these have their own downsides. Before taking any of such supplements, consult your doctor.
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