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.
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.
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.
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.
As the guidelines for treating heart disease are informed by evidence from medical studies, these treatments become more common and survival rates increase.
Angioplasty can be used as a treatment for intermittent claudication in leg veins. While the results are quicker, equivalent benefits can be achieved with an exercise program combined with medication, without the risk and recovery period of surgery.
People who take the medication warfarin need to test their blood regularly to monitor its clotting time. A Medicare program is providing the equipment and means to do this testing at home.
The habits and behaviors of a healthy lifestyle can also reduce the risk of stroke: don’t smoke, exercise, keep cholesterol and blood presure as low as possible, and eat a healthy diet.
Increasing portion sizes mean we consume more calories, which has contributed to the increase in obesity among Americans. Discipline and changes in habits can help us reduce how much we eat, while still maintaining a good nutritional balance.
Two studies found that women with high nonfasting triglyceride levels (measured after a meal) had a much higher risk of cardiovascular problems.