Category: heart-letter

After some recent heart tests, my doctor said everything looked fine. But the report he sent me mentions a myocardial bridge. Should I be concerned?

People who eat more whole fruits, especially apples, pears, grapes, and raisins, appear to be less likely to develop high blood pressure than those who rarely eat fruit.

Just 15 minutes of moderate exercise a day provides health benefits and increases longevity. Exercising for longer periods helps even more, but only up to a point, as the benefits seem to plateau beyond 45 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise a day.

Pacemakers have become a staple of cardiovascular care. The devices have gotten smaller, safer, and more reliable over time. For some people, a pacemaker is needed to prevent death. It is also used to improve cardiac function and quality of life.

The strength of a person’s hand grip may be linked to factors associated with cardiovascular health, including blood pressure and blood sugar.

In peripheral artery disease (PAD), the arteries below the heart become clogged with fatty deposits. Because the main symptom (pain in the calf, thigh, or buttocks with walking that goes away with rest) doesn’t always occur, PAD often goes unrecognized.

For people prone to heart disease, monthly peer-group support meetings may help them make lifestyle changes to improve their risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking and being inactive.

In obstructive sleep apnea, a person’s breathing stops many times a night.These episodes can damage the inner lining of the blood vessels. Devices that keep airways open during sleep can help improve quality of life and lower cardiovascular risks.

Having a large belly-a condition known as central obesity-may increase the risk of dying of cardiovascular disease, even if the person is not overweight.

Swimming may be a good alternative to walking for people who find walking difficult, such as those who have achy knees, sore hips, or excess weight. Recreational or slow lap swimming counts as moderate exercise.