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Echocardiograms use high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to create images of the heart. There are several variations of this common test, including three-dimensional echocardiograms and color Doppler echocardiograms.
Emotional stress may raise heart attack risk as much as smoking and high blood pressure. Stress has been linked to heightened activity in the brain’s fear center (amygdala), which signals the bone marrow to release white blood cells. These cells contribute to chronic inflammation and atherosclerosis. Strategies such as yoga, tai chi, mindfulness meditation, regular exercise, and adequate sleep may help mitigate the risk. But so far, the evidence is limited.
COVID-19 is particularly dangerous for people with heart disease and related conditions such as high blood pressure. Older people have higher rates of heart problems, so they may be more vulnerable to complications, and any viral infection puts extra stress on the heart.
Most people typically get around 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day doing things such as household chores, going to the mailbox, or grocery shopping. But people who walk 8,000 steps per day (about 4 miles in total) may live longer than those who walk just 4,000 steps per day—and walking speed doesn’t seem to matter. People who walk 12,000 steps per day may live even longer than those who take 8,000 steps. But the added benefit was small, and walking even more may not make a difference.
Every year, hundreds of people in the United States die waiting for a heart transplant. Most are in their 50s and early 60s and have severe, debilitating heart failure. A new procedure known as donation after circulatory death may make up to 20% more donated hearts available. These transplants are made possible thanks to a machine referred to as a “heart in a box” that perfuses the heart with warm blood after it has been removed from the donor.
Chia seeds are the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acid and are also a good source of fiber. The small, black seeds don’t have much flavor, so they can be added to foods such as cereal or yogurt for a stealthy nutrient boost.
Coconut oil raises harmful LDL cholesterol (a well-known contributor to clogged arteries and heart disease) much more than other vegetable oils such as soybean, safflower, canola, and olive oils.
Many home blood pressure devices sold online by multinational companies are not carefully tested for accuracy. Inaccurate blood pressure readings could put people at risk for inappropriate treatment.
A yoga-based rehabilitation program may be a safe alternative to conventional cardiac rehabilitation.
Doctors say connecting with loved ones and friends via video calls may help people feel less lonely and isolated. Video calls are made using applications (“apps”) on a smartphone, laptop, or tablet. These apps enable users to reach people anywhere in the world. As of the spring of 2020, apps commonly used to make video calls included FaceTime, Google Duo, Snapchat, Zoom, Skype, and WhatsApp. Video calls can also be used to engage in book clubs, support groups, or exercise instruction.