Heart Failure Archive

High temperatures raise risk for heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and also stress the cardiovascular system, making the heart work harder. If you have a heart condition, here's how to keep cool and protect yourself when temperatures rise.

A low HDL number can be worrisome even with normal cholesterol. Explore lifestyle shifts that may nudge your good cholesterol higher.

Learn what pelvic phleboliths are and whether treatment is needed.

Both systolic and diastolic readings matter. But large studies have shifted focus toward the top number. See what each reveals about heart risk.

An unusually low LDL result on a screening exam can be puzzling. Learn when small numbers reflect benefit and when they might signal a hidden problem.

Carbohydrate intake and other aspects of your diet may impact triglyceride levels. See how everyday choices may nudge this number up or down.

Seasons can affect blood pressure. But winter chills, holiday weight gain, and salty comfort foods can also push readings higher as warm weather gives way to cold.

Legs that repeatedly give out after activity, then recover with rest, may point to more than low minerals and warrant prompt medical evaluation.

Regular blood donations can slowly drain iron stores, lowering hemoglobin levels. Iron supplements may help rebuild them.

Certain diuretics flush out both water and potassium, but not everyone needs extra. Your doctor will consider blood test results and which other medications you're taking to determine the safest approach.