Thousands of substances have the potential to affect the heart’s electrical system and alter its ability to pump blood through the body. Many illegal, prescription, and over-the-counter drugs, as well as alcohol, tobacco, certain foods and other substances can affect the electrical signals that stimulate the heartbeat.
Dietary Supplements and Over-the-Counter Medications
Some herbs and other substances used in over-the-counter remedies are believed to improve abnormal heart rhythms. Others can make them worse. Many have not been researched well enough to know what their effects will be. Always ask your doctor before taking any medications, dietary supplements or herbal remedies.
Substances in the Environment & Workplace
An unexplained change in the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat, especially if it happens more than once, should be evaluated by a doctor. The same is true for any worrisome symptoms that come and go without explanation. Be sure to tell the doctor if you work with or are exposed to chemicals or other substances that might be causing the problem.
Tobacco
Tobacco causes more heart and blood vessel disease, stroke and heart-related deaths than all illegal drugs combined. It contributes to as much as one-third of all cardiovascular disease.
Caffeine, Diet and Heart Arrhythmias
Caffeine is the most common substance associated with heart arrhythmias. Some people feel heart palpitations when they drink coffee or tea or eat chocolate. Red wine and eating too much can bring about symptoms in others. These rhythm problems are rarely serious.
Alcohol
Too much alcohol can be as bad for the heart - or worse -than many illegal substances. Alcohol abuse is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and stroke.
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