Harvard Heart Letter: December 2007

The FDA is recommending a genetic test for people prescribed warfarin, to search for variants of certain genes that can affect the drug's effectiveness. But there is not enough evidence yet that the test makes using the drug safer.

Isolated systolic hypertension, when the systolic blood pressure is above 140 while the diastolic pressure is below 90, is caused by stiffening of large arteries. Medication may be prescribed, but lifestyle changes will have more impact on overall health.

Research has established that heart disease tends to run in families, so if a family member has a heart attack or stroke, it should serve as a motivator for other family members to see their doctors.

A small but growing number of people develop an infection after having a pacemaker or ICD implanted. Research has found that taking antibiotics before the procedure reduces the risk of infection.

A study found that women who had off-pump bypass surgery had much lower rates of heart attack, stroke, or death during the operation or shortly after, more so than for men.

ACE inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor blockers are both used to combat stress hormones, which can contribute to heart failure. Combining them brings additional risks that outweigh any possible benefits.

A study found that heart disease deaths peaked each year during flu season, because the flu can trigger a heart attack or stroke. Those with heart disease, and those at higher risk of getting it, should get a flu vaccine each year.

Cardiac rehabilitation programs have been shown to reduce deaths in the years following a heart attack or stent procedure, but not enough patients participate in the programs.

Last year, I had an aortic dissection. My surgeon says not to do any cardio or resistance exercise and to keep my heart rate down. My cardiologist says I can do light cardio and resistance exercise but to watch my blood pressure. Whom should I believe?

Is it true that drinking yerba mate can lower blood pressure and cholesterol?