Heart Health Archive

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Advice about the amount of physical activity required to stave off heart disease and other chronic ailments is usually expressed as a time-based goal. But counting steps may be just as useful, according to a 2024 study.

Chest pain is an indicator of a possible heart attack, but it may also be a symptom of another condition or problem. The type and location of the pain can help doctors determine what is causing it.

The spouses of people who have heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure may face an elevated risk of depression, according to a 2024 study.

The American Heart Association's first-ever scientific statement on artificial intelligence (A.I.) in cardiology explores how the technology may improve how doctors prevent, detect, and treat heart disease. For example, A.I. data from patch monitors may predict who will develop potentially serious heart rhythms. Applying A.I. tools to a single chest x-ray may predict a person's risk of heart attack and other serious health problems.