Category: harvardhealth_news_UNDEFINED

Sore muscle pain that doesn’t go away after a few days, becomes severe, or affects mobility could be a sign of a muscle strain, sometimes called a pulled muscle. Mild and moderate muscle strain can be treated with RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and over-the-counter pain medication as needed. Other treatment methods include massage, stretching, and proper hydration. Severe strains should be checked out as they could be signs of an underlying health problem.

New studies and recommendations have suggested that older adults might benefit from avoiding alcohol. However, the consensus remains that moderate drinkers have a lower risk for heart disease and live longer than heavy drinkers and people who don’t drink all. Experts suggest that people should not start drinking for possible health benefits, but if they do drink, they should do so in moderation, which for men is no more than two standard drinks per day.

People with a family history of heart disease and high LDL cholesterol should consult their doctor about lowering their LDL levels to less than 70 milligrams per deciliter, which often means taking a statin, eating a healthier diet and exercising regularly.

An active social life is good medicine for the body and brain as it lowers the risk for many chronic diseases and protects against dementia and mild cognitive impairment. However, people who are introverts and enjoy their solitude can struggle with engagement. These individuals can benefit from socializing while maintaining their comfort levels by engaging in activities like joining social clubs and other groups, taking classes, and attending public events.

A 2025 study found that in people who are overweight or obese, substituting standing and light walking in place of sitting may help improve blood levels of certain types of fats, including triglycerides and small, dense LDL cholesterol particles.

Older adults might not think too much about how they want to spend their remaining years. However, some self-reflection can help them live their final years to their fullest. Asking themselves what is most important in five areas—relationships, health, education, personal growth, and recreation—can help people recognize where their passions lie. Once they discover which goals are most important, they then can begin developing plans to meet them.

Telehealth visits combined with home monitoring may be an effective way to help people reach and maintain their blood pressure goals, according to a 2025 study.

Older people with atrial fibrillation are sometimes advised to stop taking clot-prevention drugs due to fears about bleeding. But a 2025 study suggests that the risk of stroke and heart attack from stopping the drugs outweighs the risk of bleeding.

To optimize cardiovascular health, the best strategy may be a workout that combines three types of exercise: moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, and strength training. Moderate activity burns calories and boosts metabolism, which helps control weight. Moderate-to-vigorous exercise also helps dampen the body’s “fight or flight” response, which plays a role in chronic stress and anxiety. Aerobic exercise in general also helps the heart to become more efficient and blood vessels to become more flexible. Strength training makes the body more efficient at burning fat for energy and helps improve insulin sensitivity.

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) creates a 3D image of the heart and its blood vessels, revealing both obstructive and nonobstructive plaque. Most heart attacks occur when smaller, nonobstructive plaques rupture and form a clot that triggers a heart attack. Used to assess people with stable angina, CCTA may prevent heart attacks by improving how cardiologists find and treat heart disease.