The Heart, Pericardium, and Whole-Body Health, Atrial Fibrillation

The Heart, Pericardium, and Whole-Body Health**

Why do heart-related problems not always show up as chest pain?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Heart is not viewed only as a physical organ.
It is also closely related to:

• Blood circulation

• Emotional regulation and stress

• Sleep quality

• Breathing and overall vitality

Because of this, heart- or circulation-related imbalance may first appear in other parts of the body, not just the chest.

Common symptoms that may be related to the Heart or Pericardium

These symptoms do NOT automatically mean heart disease, but recurring or persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider:

• Palpitations (fast, strong, or irregular heartbeat)

• Chest tightness or discomfort

• Anxiety, restlessness, or irritability

• Poor sleep or frequent waking

• Chronic neck or shoulder stiffness

• Pain or tightness between the shoulder blades

• Fatigue, especially after meals

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

• Symptoms that worsen with stress

• Throat, jaw, dental, or upper-arm pain in older adults

👉 These signs may reflect circulation or autonomic nervous system imbalance, not necessarily structural heart disease.

What is the “Pericardium” in TCM?

The Pericardium can be understood as a functional system that:

• Protects the heart

• Supports coordinated heart rhythm

• Links emotional stress with physical symptoms

In TCM practice, many cases of chest tightness, palpitations, anxiety, or upper-back discomfort are associated with Pericardium imbalance rather than the heart muscle itself.

Daily habits that support heart health

• Regular sleep schedule

• Gentle, consistent exercise

• Stress management and relaxation

• Reduce caffeine if it triggers symptoms

• Maintain healthy digestion and bowel movements

• Avoid excessive greasy or heavy meals

Atrial Fibrillation, Exercise, and Integrative Care**

What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder characterized by:

• Irregular heartbeat

• Sometimes rapid or fluctuating heart rate

• Possible symptoms: palpitations, chest discomfort, fatigue, shortness of breath

⚠️ AFib does not mean the heart will suddenly stop,
but it requires long-term medical management to reduce the risk of stroke and heart failure.

Core principles of AFib care

• Cardiology care is essential

  • Includes medications, rhythm or rate control, and anticoagulation when indicated

• TCM may be used as supportive care, with physician approval

  • To help improve comfort, sleep, stress regulation, and overall quality of life

👉 TCM does not replace cardiology treatment.
It may complement care under medical supervision.

Exercise and heart rhythm health

With cardiologist approval and stable condition:

✅ Recommended:

• Gentle, regular exercise (walking, cycling, stretching)

• At least 15 minutes per session

• 3 or more days per week

⚠️ Important precautions:

• Keep heart rate below ~150 beats per minute

• Stop immediately if experiencing:

  • Chest tightness

  • Dizziness

  • Palpitations

  • Shortness of breath

When to seek urgent medical care

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• Persistent or severe chest pain

• Sudden vision loss or visual disturbance

• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body

• Fainting or near-fainting

• Severe throat, jaw, or dental pain with discomfort (especially in older adults)

One key message to remember

Heart care is long-term care.
Western medicine ensures safety and risk control.
Traditional Chinese Medicine may support overall balance and quality of life.
Collaborative care benefits patients the most.