Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common disorder in which the heart beats chaotically instead of pumping smoothly. It happens when little clusters of cells in one of the heart's upper chambers begin to quiver instead of contracting regularly to send blood out into the rest of the body. The condition affects approximately 2 million Americans. It might occur with no warning, and it's more common in people over 65. Here's what you need to know about this disorder and some ways to conquer it.

If someone is having an episode of AFib, they might experience heart palpitations. They may also notice shortness of breath, sweating, or anxiety. Other signs include an irregular pulse, lightheadedness, dizziness, falling asleep during a conversation, or a headache.

If someone you love has any of these symptoms, you should monitor the person and make sure they're okay. If someone has an elevated heart rate, you can help them slow it down by encouraging rest, putting something cold on their neck, and making sure they breathe slowly. You can't stop an abnormal heart rhythm, but you can help the person stay calm until they get medical attention. If you notice someone having an AFib episode, you should get them to a hospital as soon as possible.

If you suffer from this disorder, it is important to eat a healthy diet and stay active. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil, flaxseed oil, and walnuts may reduce the risk of AFib. Exercise can help to regulate your heartbeat, reduce your risk of heart disease, and improve your overall health.

Intermittent stress can be good for you, as it promotes an adaptive response called allostasis. When stress becomes chronic and lasts for a long time, it can cause damage to the body. This damage can contribute to AFib. Some studies suggest that people who experience ongoing stress have an increased risk of the condition. Meditation is an evidence-based practice that can help you stress less and live a healthier, happier life. Yoga and other types of controlled breathing have been shown to help relieve AFib symptoms in some people.

When lifestyle changes haven't worked, consider taking supplements. There isn't enough evidence to recommend a particular supplement for controlling irregular heartbeats. A few highly recommended supplements include coenzyme Q10, magnesium, and l-carnitine. Consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your regimen.

There is minimal evidence to suggest that foot reflexology can reduce the risk of AFib. Reflexology massage is a form of alternative treatment that aims to promote healing and reduce stress by applying gentle pressure to the feet and hands. While it hasn't been studied enough to prove that it actually works, it's unlikely to cause any harm. So if you're interested in trying reflexology massage to prevent AFIb, it's worth a shot.

If you are diagnosed with AFib, a clinician will help you manage the condition in order to reduce the risk of complications. Your treatment options will depend on the severity of the condition and your risk of complications.