Heart Health Archive

Heart Health

From the wrist to the heart: A safer route for angioplasty?

Published November 1, 2021

At least half of all artery-opening angioplasties done in the United States now begin at the wrist instead of the top of the thigh. The wrist (or transradial) approach is easier on patients, safer, and less expensive. After the procedure, people can sit up right away instead of lying flat for several hours, and they are much less likely to experience bleeding, including serious bleeding in the abdomen. The lower complication rates mean people can leave the hospital sooner, which translates to decreased costs.

Heart Health

Post-traumatic stress disorder: When fear strikes the heart

Published November 1, 2021

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be triggered by many harrowing events, including serious car accidents, violent personal trauma, and military combat. Over a lifetime, about 8% of adults develop PTSD, which is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Many factors closely linked to heart disease—such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes—are also common in people with PTSD, so untangling the true nature of the association has proven challenging. But repeated, long-term stress can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation, all of which can encourage clogged heart arteries. Ongoing research looking at the genetics and epidemiology of PTSD, cardiovascular disease, and their shared, related risks is under way.

Heart Health

Fruit of the month: Pears

Published November 1, 2021

Pears are a good source of fiber and several beneficial plant compounds (phytochemicals), including catechins. Also found in apples and cocoa, catechins may help lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel health, and discourage blood clots.

Heart Health

What’s your daily budget for saturated fat?

Published November 1, 2021

To help prevent high LDL cholesterol, experts recommend limiting saturated fat to 7% of total daily calories. Changes such as avoiding red and processed meats, cheese, and other full-fat dairy products can help. People can look up the saturated fat content of foods with free apps such as Lose It! or MyFitnessPal. To replace lost calories, the best choices are unsaturated fats such as liquid vegetable oils from vegetables, nuts, and seeds, as well as avocados, nuts, and nut butters.

Heart Health

Cycling: A low-impact exercise that helps the heart

Published November 1, 2021

Cycling outdoors may help people with diabetes (a strong predictor of heart disease) lower their odds of premature death. If inclement weather or traffic make outdoor cycling unsafe, using an indoor cycling machine can be a convenient way to stay fit. These machines are also ideal for people with physical limitations (such as mobility or balance issues) that make riding a traditional bike challenging. Different types that can accommodate people with varied fitness levels and physical abilities include under-desk cycles and recumbent or upright stationary bikes.

Heart Health

COVID-19 diagnosis raises risk of heart attack, stroke

Published November 1, 2021

A Swedish study suggests that risk of a heart attack or stroke at least triples in the week following a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Heart Health

Experimental wireless pacemaker dissolves when no longer needed

Published October 1, 2021

A wireless, battery-free device that naturally absorbs into the body within two months may one day be a safer alternative to temporary pacemakers.

Heart Health

Aspirin and bruising

Published October 1, 2021

Taking low-dose aspirin may increase bruising and minor bleeding from small cuts. Minor bleeding does not necessarily indicate a greater likelihood of experiencing major bleeding.

Heart Health

Breath training may lower blood pressure

Published October 1, 2021

Using a device that strengthens breathing muscles for just five minutes a day may help lower blood pressure. The small handheld device provides resistance as a person inhales and exhales, providing what’s known as inspiratory muscle strength training.

Heart Health

Better blood sugar tracking: A benefit for heart health?

Published October 1, 2021

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM)—a small device placed on the arm or belly that measures blood sugar every few minutes—may help people with diabetes recognize the eating and exercise habits that hinder (or help) them control their blood sugar. CGM readouts, which are displayed on a smartphone or portable monitor, show your blood sugar values, trends, and the percentage of time that your blood sugar is in a "good control" range. Medicare covers CGMs for people who inject insulin at least three times a day or use an insulin pump to control their blood sugar.

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Heart Health Archive

Articles

From the wrist to the heart: A safer route for angioplasty?

Post-traumatic stress disorder: When fear strikes the heart

Fruit of the month: Pears

What’s your daily budget for saturated fat?

Cycling: A low-impact exercise that helps the heart

COVID-19 diagnosis raises risk of heart attack, stroke

Experimental wireless pacemaker dissolves when no longer needed

Aspirin and bruising

Breath training may lower blood pressure

Better blood sugar tracking: A benefit for heart health?

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