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Heart Failure Archive

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Preventing and treating low sodium levels

Treating low blood sodium (hyponatremia) may include cutting back on fluids, but not necessarily consuming more salt. Other possible treatments include medication adjustments and—in severe cases—receiving an intravenous saline solution.

Morning routines that lower blood pressure

Mornings can be a good time to establish routines to help lower blood pressure throughout the day. These include eating a healthy breakfast, limiting dietary salt, and getting regular exercise.

Reading the current blood pressure guidelines

To protect against heart attack, stroke, and cognitive decline, people should aim for a blood pressure reading below 130/80, according to the current blood pressure guidelines.

Light exposure at night may raise risk for heart disease

Sleeping in a dark room may do more than improve sleep; it may also benefit heart health. A 2026 study linked nighttime light exposure with harmful changes in heart structure and higher risks of heart failure, atrial fibrillation, heart attack, stroke, and death from heart disease.

Monitoring blood pressure at home? Make sure you follow these steps

Your doctor may ask you to track your blood pressure at home to help decide if you need to start taking medication or to track your response to treatment. Here's how to get accurate readings.

Why your gums are so important to your health

Periodontal disease, the leading cause of adult tooth loss, may increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and dementia.

People who walk more or walk faster live longer, study finds

A 2026 study found that taking more daily steps (even at a slow pace) or walking faster (even without adding steps) was associated with a lower chance of dying early.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy: A little-known cause of cognitive decline and stroke

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy is a common condition that causes amyloid to build up in tiny blood vessels on the brain’s surface. It can lead to gradual cognitive decline, brain bleeds, and hemorrhagic strokes.

Can you treat inflammation to lower heart risk?

While a large study found that a drug to lower inflammation failed to prevent heart attacks and related risk, inflammation is still important in the development of coronary artery disease.

LDL cholesterol: Will it increase on a low-carb or keto diet?

Low-carb diets can have varied effects on LDL cholesterol levels based on a person’s body mass index. In lean people, LDL cholesterol values can rise dramatically, while levels may decline in people with obesity.

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