Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs when impaired blood flow between the heart chambers causes abnormalities in the heartbeat. The condition is a harbinger of serious health problems such as blood clots and stroke. Recognizing the factors that trigger this situation reduces the fatal effects. Some studies have found that ingesting iced foods and drinks can accelerate sudden changes in heart rate. The American College of Cardiology reports the case of a 79-year-old father and 42-year-old son who had a sudden attack after eating the same food.
NO PREVIOUS HEART DISEASES
Family members without a prior history of significant heart disease separately developed symptomatic new-onset AF after “rapidly eating a flavored common iced dessert,” the report said. He continues: “Both returned to sinus rhythm after treatment with anti-arrhythmic agents.” Elsewhere in the report, the situation of a 29-year-old woman is described. The ACC similarly developed brain freeze after the adult ate a watery ice drink and subsequently required “electric cardioversion.”
THE PROXIMITY OF THE HEART AND EATING PIPE CAN CAUSE THIS SITUATION
Proceedings of Baylor University Medical Center explained that one possible reason for the connection was the proximity of the heart and esophagus. According to the magazine, this may be why ingestion of very cold drinks triggers paroxysmal AF and other types of arrhythmias. “Patients should be made aware of the importance of avoiding such triggers,” the journal advises. Because this link has been the subject of little research so far, its true prevalence remains poorly explained.
OTHER CAUSES OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Consuming high-sugar foods and beverages can lead to obesity and high blood pressure, two known precursors of AF, according to Medicine Net. “Hypertension [AF] can trigger episodes. Artificial sweeteners can be just as bad or even worse than conventional sugar,” explains the health agency. Because other stimulants such as caffeine and sodium are known triggers, patients should be made aware of the importance of avoiding triggers such as energy drinks.
REDUCE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
Medicine Net continues: “Alcohol has been a strong trigger for AF, and alcohol-induced AF is referred to as holiday heart syndrome.” It refers to significant AF events that occur during a holiday, often associated with binge drinking. However, for some people, even moderate drinking can lead to episodes of AF. Reduction in alcohol consumption can reduce AF triggers.”
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION?
Because the symptoms of AF are so vague, people often can’t make a connection between their symptoms and their heart condition. ebMD explains: “You may think you are out of shape or not feeling like yourself. But you may have AF and not even know it.
- Disturbing irregular heartbeat, palpitations
- Inability to exercise and weakening
- feeling of burnout
- Shortness of breath
- chest pain
- dizziness