Heart Health 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.

Bigeminy is a usually harmless heart rhythm problem caused by premature heartbeats that may cause palpitations. Possible triggers include caffeine, stress, and lack of sleep. People with additional symptoms may need further testing.

Wearing an Apple Watch capable of recording an electrocardiogram may increase the detection of atrial fibrillation in older adults at increased risk for stroke, according to a 2026 study.

In late 2025, the FDA approved a nasal spray to treat a sporadic, rapid heart rhythm called paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). The self-administered spray, called etripamil (Cardamyst), may help people avoid emergency room treatment for PSVT.

Periodontal (gum) disease is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, possibly because gum disease can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation that damages blood vessels.

The foundation of a heart-healthy diet should be minimally processed plant-based foods, which are good sources of fiber, protein, and phytonutrients. People should also limit saturated fat and make sure they consume omega-3 fatty acids.

A review of 17 studies found that for people at high risk of heart disease, cutting down on saturated fats may have lowered their risk of major cardiac events over the next five years, but people at lower risk did not see similar benefits.