Editors’ note
The editors of the Harvard Heart Letter introducean issue focused on acquiring new knowledge in order to improve your health.
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Month: April 2010
What to do about social anxiety disorder
For those with social anxiety disorder, social situations are highly distressing. The condition may stem from self-image and fear of being judged by others. Treatment typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy and an anti-anxiety medication.
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In the journals: Exercise eases nighttime leg twitches
People who suffer from periodic leg movement disorder, which disrupts sleep, may find that intense exercise during the day results in fewer leg movements during sleep and improved sleep quality.
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In the journals: Research finds that many older people can’t get up from a fall
As people get older, they are at greater risk of falling, and it also becomes more difficult for them to get up after a fall, which may complicate injuries.
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Joint inflammation may point the finger at heart disease
Inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or gout has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Drugs are being tested, but the current advice is to exercise, eat a healthy diet, and control weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
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Heart Beat: Look alive – it’s Monday!
A public service campaign aims to encourage people to make healthier lifestyle choices by thinking about them each week on Monday.
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Heart beat: As the hammock swings
A Greek study found that taking a nap may decrease the risk of heart disease, but the results may be due to other factors, such as a lower-stress lifestyle, so they cannot be interpreted as cause and effect.
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Heart Beat: Good news keeps brewing on coffee and heart disease
According to an Italian study, heart attack survivors can safely drink a cup or two of coffee a day without increased risk for additional heart disease.
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In the journals: Head maneuvers work best for common vertigo
A study found that a series of head movements known as the Epley maneuver was an effective and safe treatment for those suffering from vertigo.
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Easing the pain of plantar fasciitis
The pain of plantar fascitis can often be relieved with rest, ice, and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen. Stretching will help restore flexibility so pain does not return upon resuming your activities.
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