Category: heart-letter

The ankle-brachial index is a comparative blood pressure test, taken at the arms and ankles, that is done to check for the presence of peripheral artery disease.

Analysis of clinical trials showed that generic versions of cardiovascular medications are as effective as their name-brand counterparts.

Researchers measured the amount of trans fat in blood cells and found that those with higher levels in their blood had a higher risk of having a heart attack or dying of heart disease.

I started taking Tricor because I have low HDL and high triglycerides. Someone I know at work developed gallstones after being on Tricor for a while. Is this a common side effect? If so, is there another medication I can take?

I am 58 and have had several stents implanted. I used to lift weights, but stopped after getting the stents. My blood pressure is good, and I take medications. I want to resume lifting but worry that it could cause a heart attack. Is that possible?

I take warfarin. I have blood blisters on my arms and sporadically on my legs. Recently I developed purple toes on one foot. My cardiologist didn’t seem concerned and wouldn’t explain whether it was the warfarin. Can you shed some light on this?

A person can be overweight and still be fit and healthy, but it is still better for the body to lose weight if possible, and even better to lose weight and get regular exercise.

One-third of people with heart failure have ventricles that beat out of sync. A biventricular pacemaker sends electrical signals to the ventricles to keep them working together, making everyday activities easier.

I was recently diagnosed with glaucoma. My eye doctor prescribed eye drops to reduce the pressure inside my eyes. After a short time I had to stop using them because they made me dizzy and my heartbeat felt strange. What else can I do for my eyes?

My father had open-heart surgery 18 months ago. Fairly soon after the operation, he started having the feeling that wires are poking him in the chest. Is that possible? If so, is there a solution?