How to Alleviate Heart Palpitations and Shortness of Breath
Experiencing heart palpitations and shortness of breath can be concerning, and proper treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause through medical evaluation. Here are effective strategies for managing these symptoms based on different conditions:
Functional Heart Conditions
Functional heart issues are often linked to imbalances in the nervous or endocrine systems. In such cases, lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in symptom relief. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or regular physical activity may help regulate heart function. Additionally, both herbal remedies and prescribed medications can support cardiovascular health and alleviate discomfort. With proper care, improvement is often seen relatively quickly.
Structural or Organic Heart Diseases
When palpitations and breathlessness stem from organic heart diseases, such as specific arrhythmias or structural abnormalities, a more targeted and long-term treatment approach is necessary. Depending on the diagnosis, doctors may prescribe anti-arrhythmic drugs or recommend advanced interventions.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
For conditions like paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) or atrial fibrillation, radiofrequency ablation is a highly effective option. This minimally invasive procedure can correct abnormal heart rhythms and significantly improve quality of life.
Surgical Interventions
In more severe cases—such as rheumatic heart valve disease or ischemic heart disease caused by significant coronary artery blockage—surgical treatment may be required. Procedures like valve replacement or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) can restore proper heart function and prevent further complications.
Ultimately, the right treatment path depends on a thorough medical assessment. Consulting a cardiologist and undergoing diagnostic tests like an ECG, echocardiogram, or Holter monitoring is essential for determining the most appropriate course of action.