Heart Health Archive

Treatments for severe carotid stenosis include a catheter-based procedure to insert a stent inside the carotid (carotid artery stenting) or surgery to remove the plaque inside the artery (carotid endarterectomy).

Many Americans may have a potentially serious condition marked by a buildup of fat inside the liver. Known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), it's closely linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The root of the problem is usually excess weight-especially the accumulation of belly fat known as abdominal obesity. Weight gain can trigger a host of metabolic problems that cause blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels to rise. All of these factors are closely linked to a higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Heart disease is one of the common causes of death among people with MASLD.

Letting your arm dangle or rest in your lap (instead of being supported at heart level, as is recommended) during a blood pressure check can cause a falsely high reading, according to a 2024 study.

According to a 2024 study, eating foods rich in beneficial plant compounds called flavonoids may lower the risk of atherosclerosis in the arteries of the legs and neck. Good sources of flavonoids include tea, apples, pears, peaches, and oranges.

Having a home workout area can make it easier to meet daily exercise goals, especially during the winter months, when weather conditions may make outdoor exercise impractical. If space allows, people may want a treadmill or other machine that's suitable for any health issues they may have. For example, people with hip or knee arthritis often find that a stationary bike is more comfortable for arthritic joints. For strength training, resistance bands or tubes are ideal for beginners because they're affordable, versatile, and easy to use. Scheduling a few sessions with either a physical therapist or certified personal trainer can help people learn and practice proper form.

Research has shown that men can have a higher risk for heart attacks and strokes if they suffer from certain medical conditions that might seem unrelated to heart disease. These conditions include erectile dysfunction, gum disease, peripheral artery disease, and urinary tract infections. Many factors that contribute to heart disease like inflammation and fatty deposits in the arteries are involved in these other conditions.

People can learn how to give chest compressions-a key aspect of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR-by watching a 90-second online video. CPR keeps blood flowing to the brain and vital organs during a cardiac arrest. There are various ways to practice chest compressions on a mannequin, including at an in-person class or at one of 30 kiosks (including six at major airports) located nationwide.

A 2024 study found that when air pollution levels decreased during a five-year period in Italy, so did hospitalizations for heart-related emergencies. The results suggest that reducing air pollution could lower the prevalence of heart disease.

Most hospitals have chaplains who can provide emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families during challenging medical situations, such as impending heart surgery, a worsening bout of heart failure, or cardiac arrest. Spiritual care, which has been linked to improved health outcomes, encompasses but does not necessarily include formal religious practices. It aims to help people explore sources of comfort and hope while coping with the challenge of a diagnosis.

Eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower may reduce blood pressure more than eating squash and root veggies.