Heart Beat: Nature trumps nurture for heart disease
According to a Swedish study, the influence of genes on the development of heart disease is stronger than environment.
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Ask the doctor: Can exercise damage my pacemaker’s wires?
I had a pacemaker implanted a few months ago. I am planning to join a gym, but I am afraid of damaging the wires with some of the presses and pull-down movements I would have to do to work out. Are there any exercises or movements I should avoid?
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Ask the doctor: What is a good plan for serious heart failure?
My 69-year-old husband has had cardiomyopathy and diabetes for years. Lately his ankles are always swollen. At his last doctor visit, his cardiologist said his heart has leaky valves and his ejection fraction is 10%. What would be the best plan for him?
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Conversation with a Harvard expert
The Health Letter talks with an orthopedic surgeon about joint replacement.
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Ask the doctor: Unconscious or subconscious: Which is the correct term?
I’ve always used the word subconscious when talking about thoughts that are buried. But someone corrected me recently and said unconscious is the correct term. Have I been using the wrong word?
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Ask the doctor: Is there a connection between antidepressants and cataracts?
I read something about antidepressants causing cataracts. Is there any truth to it?
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Heart Beat: Water exercise safe for troubled hearts
Water exercise is beneficial and safe for those with heart disease.
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Preventing delirium in the hospital
Delirium occurs frequently in older people who are hospitalized. It can manifest as a state of confusion and agitation, or one of withdrawal and lethargy.
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A matter of opinion
Getting a second opinion about a medical issue is a good idea. It can confirm a previous diagnosis or offer new insights, and it may help avoid costly or unnecessary treatment.
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Novel therapy for C. difficile infections
An unusual treatment may help prevent the recurrence of a bacterial infection.
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