Heart Health Archive

Implanted heart devices include pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), which monitor and correct abnormal heart rhythms. While very reliable, they are not perfect, and recalls of these devices affect thousands of people each year, according to a 2024 study. Testing the effectiveness and safety of cardiac devices is far more complicated than testing drugs. But efforts are under way to improve postmarket tracking of device complications by using electronic health records, Medicare databases, and registries developed in partnership with device manufacturers.

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.

Virtual personalized coaching about reducing heart-related risks before heart surgery may reduce complications after surgery, a 2024 study found. Delivered via smartphone, "teleprehabilitation" offers advice on smoking cessation, nutrition, and exercise.

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.

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.

Winter soups containing beans, seasonal vegetables (such as squash, greens, and root vegetables), and whole grains are rich in heart-protecting nutrients. All the ingredients include lots of fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and is filling without adding too many calories. Homemade soups can be made with far less sodium (which raises blood pressure) than the amount found in many store-bought and restaurant soups.

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

U.S. guidelines define normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Studies have shown that the lower a person's blood pressure, the greater the heart health benefits. However, the "best" blood pressure number for someone depends on several factors, such as the person's health condition, lifestyle, family history, and personal goals. Depending on an individual's situation, a higher-than-normal number may be adequate.

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.

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.