Heart Health Archive

About 5% of Americans have low-density lipoprotein (LDL) values of 190 mg/dL or higher. Their risk of heart disease is five times higher than people with near-optimal values (less than 130 mg/dL). Some have familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that can lead to LDL values up to 350 mg/dL (or even higher in some cases). Known as FH, it's a common cause of early heart attacks.

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.

Smart rings can do many of the same things a smart watch can, including heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen level measurement, and activity and sleep tracking.

All medicines have potential side effects. Usually, side effects are more bothersome than serious -- though a few are dangerous. If you experience a side effect, what are your options?

For stroke survivors, workouts that alternate high- and low-intensity exercise (known as high-intensity interval training or HIIT) may boost fitness more than moderate-intensity workouts.

People sometimes wonder if the calcium they consume affects their calcium score, a test that measures calcium in the heart's arteries to predict heart disease risk. But a 2024 study linked higher calcium intake to a lower risk of heart calcifications. Calcium helps lower blood pressure, possibly by improving the function of the lining of blood vessels. Older adults should make sure they're getting the recommended amount of calcium in their diets. Good sources include dairy products, tofu made with calcium sulfate, almond or oat milk, canned sardines or salmon, collard greens, and kale.

Renal denervation, a nondrug treatment for uncontrolled high blood pressure, works by disrupting some of the nerves surrounding the renal arteries, which supply the kidneys. Two systems are FDA-approved for people whose blood pressure remains high despite lifestyle changes and medications. Renal denervation lowers systolic blood pressure by an average of 8 to 9 points-about the same as what people get with a single blood pressure drug. But the response varies widely; some people experience more dramatic drops, while others have no response.

People seeking motivation to be more active and connected to their community might consider signing up for a Turkey Trot, a race or "fun run" held on Thanksgiving morning. Most events are 5 kilometers (3.1 miles), and participants can walk all or part of the course. Many feature ways to support a local community charity.

The Brain Care Score is a quiz developed to help people identify proven, actionable steps to lower their risk of stroke, dementia, and depression. It includes four physical components (blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and body mass index); five lifestyle components (nutrition, alcohol intake, smoking, aerobic activities, and sleep); and three social-emotional components (stress management, social relationships, and meaning in life). Each response is given a point value, with the highest possible score totaling 21. Higher scores mean better brain care.

People who have stable angina despite taking medications can be treated with stents or bypass surgery. The best choice depends on the location and complexity of the artery blockages and other health conditions.