heart-letter
A flu shot may lower the risk of having a heart attack, a stroke, heart failure, or another major cardiac event-including death-by about a third over the following year. It’s best to get the vaccine in the fall, but January isn’t too late.
Narrowing of the carotid arteries can restrict blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of stroke. Treatments include surgery or stent placement, but this usually is done only if the artery is blocked by more than 70% or there are symptoms.
Coconut oil is a popular item on grocery store shelves. Not so long ago, the same substance was demonized as a harmful saturated fat. Current research now shows that coconut oil is okay in small amounts, but is still not a substitute for healthy vegetable
The buildup of excess fluid in the body can be dangerous for your heart even before outward signs are apparent. Checking weight daily and taking action at the first signs of fluid retention can prevent life-threatening complications of heart failure.
High cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stiffening of the arteries are well-known contributors to cardiovascular disease.
Stress tests used to be part of routine check-ups for middle-aged and older people. But practice has changed.
Just 15 minutes of physical activity a day can increase your life span by as much as three years. The benefits increase with each added minute of activity.
Mental or emotional stress can cause inadequate blood flow to the heart that may increase heart attack risk. Learning to cope with stress is the best first option; some people may benefit from antidepressants or other drugs.
A 20-year study of Native Americans suggests that low-to-moderate consumption of inorganic arsenic is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
People with atrial fibrillation are at high risk of stroke and may need a blood thinner to prevent clots. Treatment may also include medications or procedures such as pulmonary vein ablation or left atrial appendage closure.