Heart Health Archive

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a condition characterized by lightheadedness or dizziness when standing and a racing heart. The underlying cause is not known, although it sometimes follows bedrest after injury or illness. Recently, POTS has been diagnosed in some people who have had COVID-19.

Most of us don't think twice about standing up, but for people affected by postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), standing can provoke lightheadedness and a racing heartbeat. While some people with POTS will require medications, most will improve with some specific dietary and behavioral changes.

Chemical pollutants such as lead, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (also known as PFAS), and pesticides may contribute to heart disease risk. Possible routes of exposure for all three include drinking water and food. Residue and dust from many common items (such as water-resistant clothing and personal care products) may expose people to PFAS. People can limit their exposure by testing and, if needed, filtering their drinking water; choosing PFAS-free products when possible; using non-chemical pest control methods; and choosing organic foods.

A 2024 study suggests that the more alcohol people drink-whether they imbibe beer, wine, or hard liquor-the higher their blood pressure.

A short episode of anger may have adverse effects on the cells lining the blood vessels, according to a 2024 study. The findings may help explain the long-observed link between negative emotions and an increased likelihood of cardiovascular problems.

A 2024 study suggests that for people with atrial fibrillation (afib), heart failure may be a more common complication than stroke. People with afib should be vigilant for the early warning signs of heart failure, such as feeling tired and winded.

People can reduce their LDL cholesterol in three ways. One strategy involves dietary changes, such as eating more fiber-rich foods and swapping saturated fats for unsaturated fat. Another is to take one of several dietary supplements, including psyllium, plant sterols, or red yeast rice. The third entails taking a prescription medication, such as a statin. Many factors can affect whether these different strategies are advisable or useful, including a person's age and other risk factors for heart disease, their current dietary habits, and the quality of the supplements they take.

Doctors may diagnose heart attacks in people who have not actually had one, in part because they screen people with subtle symptoms out of fear of missing the diagnosis. Failure to diagnose a heart attack is the No. 1 cause of malpractice payouts in the emergency department. But the blood test used to detect a heart attack is very sensitive, and other conditions such as myocarditis (heart inflammation) may be misdiagnosed as a heart attack. This problem of overdiagnosis can expose people to unneeded risks, high costs, and other downsides.

Beta blockers remain effective medicines for treating and managing common heart disease problems. People take them to manage atrial fibrillation (an irregular and rapid heart rhythm) and to prevent chest pain from coronary artery disease. Beta blockers also are used in the initial treatment of heart attacks. However, many people who have a mild heart attack may not need to take one forever.