Taking a daily aspirin can help prevent heart attacks in men and strokes in women, but not everyone who takes aspirin should do so, because aspirin may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Gathering all your health records and vital information in one place can streamline your care and help doctors in the event of an emergency. Several web sites now offer ways to simplify the online storage of health information.
Guidelines for a nutrition-focused diet include eating more vegetables and fruits and less animal products, eating more fiber and whole grains, choosing carbs and fats wisely, and making food choices that provide for long-term health.
Though long-term hormone therapy has been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, short-term use may still be beneficial for certain symptoms, and without the risk of heart disease if started early in menopause.
Beyond the broader issues of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, many caregivers find daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating challenging. Keeping things simple and eliminating unnecessary choices may help prevent confusion.
I was admitted to the hospital with chest pain. The doctors found my blood pressure was much lower in my right arm than in my left. They rushed me for a CT scan, looking for a “tear.” Fortunately there wasn’t one. What was it they were worried about?
Illness does not necessarily have to affect the senior years. Older people who are physically active, eat healthily, and have a network of social and spiritual support are more likely to thrive.
Heart attacks are much less deadly than they used to be, primarily due to advances in knowledge and understanding of the underlying cause of heart attacks, and to the prevalence of specialized coronary care units.
Long QT syndrome is a lengthening of part of the heart’s normal rhythm that occurs when its muscle cells do not properly process certain substances. The resulting erratic heart rhythm can cause fainting, shortness of breath, and possibly death.
HDL cholesterol can be boosted by taking niacin or a fibrate, but there are possible side effects to these medications. Lifestyle changes like exercising, losing weight, and paying attention to diet should help boost HDL.