heart-letter
The leads of implanted cardiac devices can break or become infected over time. If this happens, the leads must be replaced. A defective lead can be left in the heart, but it is considered safer to have it removed.
Death rates from heart disease had been declining since the 1960s, but recently they have leveled off in men and increased very slightly in women, probably due to increases in obesity and diabetes.
Fainting occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or interrupted. An incident of fainting should be reported to a doctor, because if it was caused by a problem in the heart, it may lead to more serious problems.
After a heart attack, getting prescriptions filled and taking the medications consistently is crucial. Those who do not do so are at a much higher risk of dying within the year following an attack.
The Heart Rhythm Society has published guidelines for the procedure to remove broken, damaged, or worn out pacemaker or ICD leads.
Pulse pressure is the difference between the high and low blood pressure measurements. A high pulse pressue (larger than 40) may lead to the development of atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm.
According to a study, women who suffered from panic attacks were more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than those who did not.
Anxiety and depression greatly increase the probability of developing angina.
A survey by the federal government provides data for a visual representation showing the incidence of heart disease in the United States.
Any infection, including the flu, can stress the heart and lead to higher blood pressure, breathing problems, increased heart rate, or inflammation. Getting a flu shot can help protect the heart.