Heart Health Archive

A number of physiological changes driven by the body’s internal clock help explain why heart attacks are more common in the morning. These changes include factors involved in blood pressure, blood clot formation, and inflammation.

For many people, non-HDL cholesterol (which is total cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol) may be as good as (or even more reliable than) LDL for assessing a person's risk of heart problems.

Statin dosages fall into three categories (low, moderate, or high) based on how much the medication can lower LDL. The choice of a statin depends on a person's risk.

An enlarged heart has many possible causes, including conditions that force the heart to work harder than usual (such as chronic high blood pressure or heart valve problems) and different types of cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease).

A low resting pulse can signal peak fitness, hidden heart trouble, or even thyroid issues; learn when a slow beat is harmless and when it's not.

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.

Both systolic and diastolic readings matter. But large studies have shifted focus toward the top number. See what each reveals about heart risk.

An unusually low LDL result on a screening exam can be puzzling. Learn when small numbers reflect benefit and when they might signal a hidden problem.

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

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.