Caregiving for an individual with atrial fibrillation

Know what to hope with this prevalent heart rhythm problem and get strategies to stop caregiver burnout.

By Mayo Clinic Staff members

If you happen to be a caregiver for a loved ones member or pal with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a prevalent heart rhythm condition, you have an vital job in serving to your liked 1 control the problem.

AFib can enhance the hazard of blood clots, which can guide to strokes. Your liked 1 may require to just take blood-thinning drugs to cut down the hazard.

It truly is vital to just take these drugs accurately as approved. You may require to keep an eye on your liked one’s drugs and give reminders to just take the correct doses.

If your liked 1 is using the blood thinner warfarin (Jantovin), he or she will require regular blood checks to keep an eye on its results. You may also require to just take him or her for other lab checks or doctor’s appointments.

You may require to regulate your liked one’s diet plan if he or she is using warfarin. Specific foods and drinks rich in vitamin K can make warfarin considerably less productive in stopping blood clots. Keep away from large quantities of foods high in vitamin K, which includes:

  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Chard
  • Collards
  • Environmentally friendly tea
  • Kale
  • Mustard greens
  • Spinach

Also, cranberry juice and alcoholic beverages can enhance warfarin’s results, producing bleeding extra probable.

Your liked one’s problem might require near checking. You must observe for symptoms of stroke, heart failure or bleeding from blood thinners. Question your liked one’s doctor for unique warning symptoms you must observe for.

Your aid might help your liked 1 dwell a more healthy lifestyle. But staying a caregiver for an individual with atrial fibrillation (or any health and fitness problem) normally takes time and electrical power. Caregiving can disrupt your agenda and cause you anxiety.

Abide by these seven strategies to stop caregiver burnout.

  • Consider treatment of yourself. Eat a heart-wholesome diet plan and stay lively to preserve yourself wholesome.
  • Set apart time for yourself. Do some thing enjoyable, this kind of as seeing a comedy film, heading to a park, looking at a reserve, gardening or taking part in other hobbies you enjoy.
  • Recognize symptoms of despair or anxiety. If you feel depressed or pressured, you should not be reluctant to get skilled help.
  • Question for and take help. Question loved ones and close friends for help if you require it, and specify techniques other people can help you. If help is offered, take it.
  • Find out about atrial fibrillation. Understanding the fundamental principles about your liked one’s problem can help you understand what he or she is heading by and why he or she wants your aid. Your know-how of the problem can help you provide fantastic treatment, be an advocate for your liked 1 and participate in cure choices.
  • Take into consideration know-how. Use know-how, this kind of as textual content messaging, smartphone applications or calendar alerts, for treatment reminders.
  • Be a part of a aid team. Remaining in a aid team with persons with atrial fibrillation or other heart situations and their caregivers will allow you to share your encounters with other people who understand your circumstance.