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Heart Disease Archive

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Broken-heart syndrome (takotsubo cardiomyopathy)

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also called broken-heart syndrome, is a weakening of the left ventricle that is usually the result of severe stress. Its symptoms resemble those of a heart attack, and treatment is usually the same as that for heart failure.

After ablation, exercise may lower atrial fibrillation recurrence

After an ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation, getting at least 90 minutes of moderate exercise per week may reduce a person's risk of an afib recurrence, according to a 2026 study.

What can cause an enlarged heart?

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).

Fibroids tied to higher risk of cardiovascular disease

A 2026 study suggested that women with uterine fibroids may have far higher long-term risks of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

Effective treatment for gout can reduce heart disease risk

People who have gout, which results from excess uric acid in the body, are at increased risk for heart disease and stroke. A 2026 study found that maintaining uric acid levels below 6 mg/dL with medication reduced the risk for heart attack, stroke, and heart-related death.

Heart problems and the heat: What to know and do

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.

What is ventricular bigeminy?

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.

Understanding exercise heart rate zones

Exercise heart rate zones reflect different percentages of a person's estimated maximum heart rate. While some people find it helpful to monitor their heart rate zone during exercise, consistently engaging in physical activity is the most important priority.

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