Harvard Heart Letter: January 2007

The majority of cardiac attacks occur at home, so being prepared could save a life. Options include learning CPR, owning a defibrillator, and having an emergency plan.

Having a strong network of social connections, friends, and activities can have a positive impact on overall health and the ability to recover from serious illness such as a heart attack.

If you are facing surgery or another type of medical procedure, there are many resources available, including talking with your primary care doctor, to assist you in making an informed medical decision.

Before my bypass operation, I loved spinning. After cardiac rehabilitation, I now spin two to three times a week, and my doctor tells me to keep it up. I worry worry that the grafted blood vessels will "let go" during exercise. Am I worrying needlessly?

Five years ago, my wife, then age 70, woke up one night with a fluttering heartbeat. Her pulse was also very irregular. We went to the emergency room, where she was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. Her heart rhythm returned to normal in a few hours as she was being treated with intravenous medication, and has stayed that way ever since. She monitors her pulse rate and rhythm several times a week and has routine follow-ups with her cardiologist. No atrial fibrillation has been seen. She has been taking warfarin ever since this started, and her cardiologist wants her to keep taking it indefinitely. Now that the atrial fibrillation is old history, does she still need to keep taking this drug?

Since my bypass operation in 1996, my cardiologist has me take a thallium stress test every year. The results are always fine. I'm worried that the radiation from these tests is going to give me some kind of radiation-related cancer. Do I really need it?

Readers submit advice and tips on coping with heart dosease.

All painkilling medications, whether prescription or over the counter, pose some degree of risk for stomach irritation or cardiovascular problems. You and your doctor should discuss the benefits and risks to determine which choice is best for you.

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A discussion of the effect of free speech issues on health claims made by food companies.