Treat or eliminate risk factors that contribute to heart disease. Take the following steps: 1. Exercise and eat a healthy diet. Develop a heart-healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a healthy, low-fat diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. 2. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases the risk of heart disease. 3. Keep your blood pressure and blood lipids within normal limits. Treat high blood pressure or hyperlipidemia by making lifestyle changes and taking medications as prescribed. 4. Stop smoking. If you smoke and are unable to quit on your own, talk to your doctor about strategies and programs to help you quit. 5. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For some diseases, it is recommended that you stop drinking altogether. Ask your doctor for advice about your disease. If you cannot control the amount of alcohol you drink, talk to your doctor about a plan to stop drinking and control other alcohol-related behaviors. 6. Do not use recreational drugs. If you need help in quitting using recreational drugs, discuss an appropriate program with your doctor. 7. Stress management. Avoid unnecessary stress and learn healthy coping skills for stress. 8. Regular follow-up. Have regular physical exams and report any signs or symptoms to your doctor. Monitor and treat existing heart disease: If you already have heart disease, the following can reduce the risk of it developing into bradycardia or other arrhythmias: 1. Follow your treatment plan. 2. Report changes in your symptoms promptly. If your symptoms change or get worse or if new symptoms appear, tell your doctor promptly.