Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Almost 20% of people with hypertension may be taking medications that raise blood pressure, most often pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Other classes, such as certain antidepressants, may also increase blood pressure.

High blood pressure not only can raise risk for a heart attack, but also can affect the brain. Keeping blood pressure normal can make brain injury from stroke less likely to happen and perhaps slow the natural decline in cognitive function. Just like with the heart, the best way to protect the brain from high blood pressure is to lower blood pressure if it's high and keep it as close to a normal level as possible.

Burping is often seen (and heard) as something rude and crude, but it serves an essential purpose by preventing the stomach from overinflating with air from eating.

Platelet-rich plasma injections are used to reduce pain and speed healing for a number of common problems that affect the tendons, muscles, and joints, ranging from arthritis to shoulder pain. But a growing body of research shows that they may not be effective for some conditions, including knee osteoarthritis, ankle osteoarthritis, and Achilles tendinitis. There is some evidence that it may be effective for lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). People should consider whether there is a better option before undergoing PRP injections.

Hiking is similar to walking but can be more challenging and can provide a nice change of pace. Walking over uneven terrain typically burns more calories than a walk on a flat surface. It also builds muscle strength and improves balance. A wilderness walk also brings mental health benefits. Choosing a path to a scenic destination may motivate people to go farther and climb higher and increase fitness gains.

A 2021 study found that a low-carb diet may not necessarily be bad for heart health, despite its high saturated fat content. However, the study period was short, and the diet used in the trial was healthier than many low-carb approaches. More research is needed to confirm the results. In the meantime, experts recommend finding a sustainable diet that provides a healthy daily mix of nutritious foods instead of solely looking at carbohydrate content.

The benefits of olive oil to help reduce the risk of heart disease are well-known, but a recent study showed that people who consumed the highest amount of olive oil daily had a lower overall risk of dying early, as well as lower risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.

There are many questions a patient should ask when a new medication is prescribed. Examples include why the medication is needed, what side effects to watch for, whether it might interfere with other drugs, how to take the drug, how long to take it, what to do for a missed dose, how to store it, how much it costs, whether there's a generic form, what signs indicate the drug is working, and how to get refills.

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, taken individually or in combination, are touted as a way to relieve joint pain from arthritis –– and even to prevent it in the first place. Are they effective?

Having surgery to remove cataracts restores blurred or distorted vision, helping to improve quality of life for older adults. Now, a new study makes a strong case that removing cataracts may reduce a person's risk of developing dementia.