Heart Health Archive

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.

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

If you have high triglycerides, fruit sugar is only part of the story. Carbs, alcohol, weight, exercise, and healthy fats all influence this number.

A rising triglyceride level can increase risk of damage to the heart and pancreas. Learn which foods to eat and limit to improve your numbers.

Learn what pelvic phleboliths are and whether treatment is needed.

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.

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.

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.

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.