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Heart Health Archive

Articles

Why do my ankles swell in the summer?

Warm weather, vein valve issues, and fluid retention can all puff up your ankles. Learn what doctors look for and simple steps that may ease it.

Fibroids tied to higher risk of cardiovascular disease

A 2026 study suggested that women with uterine fibroids may have far higher long-term risks of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

Effective treatment for gout can reduce heart disease risk

People who have gout, which results from excess uric acid in the body, are at increased risk for heart disease and stroke. A 2026 study found that maintaining uric acid levels below 6 mg/dL with medication reduced the risk for heart attack, stroke, and heart-related death.

Rethinking HDL cholesterol

The scientific understanding of HDL cholesterol has evolved in recent years, and many cardiologists now believe that HDL may be more of a bystander rather than a "good guy" that helps lower heart disease risk. While some types of HDL are great at plucking excess cholesterol from LDL and artery walls (a process referred to as reverse cholesterol transport) other types of HDL don't do this. In clinical trials, medications to raise HDL levels-including a drug specifically designed to improve reverse cholesterol transport-have not succeeded in lowering heart attacks and strokes.

Coping with chronic pain, depression, and high blood pressure

Chronic pain is linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, which may be driven in part by depression, according to a 2026 study. Mind-body therapies and medications may help.

Heart problems and the heat: What to know and do

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.

How do carbohydrates influence triglyceride levels?

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

What could cause sudden leg weakness?

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

How can I raise my HDL cholesterol?

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

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