Heart Health Archive

Elevated levels of aldosterone (a hormone that regulates water, sodium, and potassium in the body) is an underrecognized and undertreated contributor to high blood pressure.

Two medications now in development, enlicitide and obicetrapib, can lower harmful LDL cholesterol and may be promising options for people who cannot tolerate statins or who still have high LDL despite their current treatment.

A 2025 study finds that among people with high blood pressure, waking up from sleep to urinate is closely linked to elevated blood pressure during sleep.

A narrowed aortic valve (aortic stenosis) affects about one in 20 people over age 65. Medical therapies for treating this progressive disease are under investigation, and a recent study explored the potential benefits of proactive valve replacement.

People with prediabetes who successfully lower their blood sugar back to normal levels may cut their future risk of death due to heart disease by half, according to a 2025 study.

After a successful catheter ablation to treat atrial fibrillation, some people may safely stop taking anti-clotting medications. But the decision to discontinue those drugs depends on a person's underlying risk of stroke rather than the success of the procedure.

A 2025 review of past research found that electromagnetic field exposure from electric cars poses no immediate health risks for people with implanted heart devices, such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.

Electrical cardioversion is generally a safe, painless procedure used to convert a rapid or irregular heartbeat (such as atrial fibrillation) back to a normal rhythm. It's done under sedation and takes only a few minutes.

There are many ways people can meet the guidelines for weekly activity besides running and walking. They can do activities like boxing, swimming, cycling, basketball, dancing, and pickleball; circuit training using gym machines; and exercising at home.

Compression socks are snug, supportive stockings that can help people who struggle with leg swelling or circulation issues. They're commonly used for certain vein problems or clot risks, and a doctor can help decide who needs them and how to use them.