People with atrial fibrillation are at high risk of stroke and may need a blood thinner to prevent clots. Treatment may also include medications or procedures such as pulmonary vein ablation or left atrial appendage closure.
Nondairy foods-like leafy green vegetables and fish-can provide calcium for people who are vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just not fond of dairy.
A 20-year study of Native Americans suggests that low-to-moderate consumption of inorganic arsenic is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Mental or emotional stress can cause inadequate blood flow to the heart that may increase heart attack risk. Learning to cope with stress is the best first option; some people may benefit from antidepressants or other drugs.
Each time you get a new prescription, it’s important to find out why your doctor is prescribing it. You should also talk to your doctor before changing or stopping any medicine.
Stents used to open blocked arteries and restore blood flow are safe and effective in women. The newest-generation drug-coated stents seem to work best at preventing a heart attack or stroke.
The most common types of headaches in older adults include tension, migraine, and sinus headaches. Knowing which type of headache one has will indicate which medications to use first.
It appears that people who take statins to keep their cholesterol in check may also be at increased risk for developing cataracts. However, doctors do not advise stopping statin use because of the risk.
Caffeine is showing up in non-natural places such as snacks, energy bars, meal replacements, and other processed foods. It’s listed on food labels only when it is added to a food. If it occurs naturally in an ingredient, caffeine will not be listed.
Just 15 minutes of physical activity a day can increase your life span by as much as three years. The benefits increase with each added minute of activity.