Statins Do More Than Just Lower High Cholesterol
About 40 million people in the U.S. take a statin drug. Statins are typically used to lower high cholesterol in the blood. But they have other important benefits, too. In fact, they may be prescribed for people with diabetes even when their cholesterol level is normal.
Feel Dizzy When You Stand? Here’s Why to Tell Your Doctor
Do you feel dizzy when you stand? Even faint or fall down? These are all signs of a condition called orthostatic hypotension, which doctors have long linked to heart problems. Now, a new study suggests it might have consequences for the mind, too.
Have a Heart-to-Heart with Your Doctor About Marijuana
Even though marijuana is now legal in some states, you may be hesitant to tell your healthcare provider if you use it. But here’s a reason why you should: Marijuana may not be safe for everyone. In fact, the American Heart Association is concerned that using it regularly may have a negative effect on your heart.
Give AF the Boot with Healthy Habits
It can feel like your heart is flip-flopping, beating fast, or skipping beats. Atrial fibrillation (AF)—or irregular heartbeat—affects more than 2 million Americans.
10 Questions to Ask After a Heart Disease Diagnosis
Hearing that you have heart disease is big news. There’s a lot of information to digest, and it can feel overwhelming at first. Confusion, anxiety, and uncertainty about what to expect are common reactions to this type of diagnosis.
Statin Medicines: Get the Facts, Stat!
Several types of medicine can lower cholesterol levels. But a group of medicines called statins are the first choice for most people. Studies have shown that they can substantially reduce the chance of having a heart attack or stroke in at-risk individuals. Here are the key facts you need to know about these widely used medicines.
Following Doctor’s Orders Improves Survival After a Heart Attack
Having a heart attack is enough of a shock. But afterward, patients may receive another surprise when their health care provider hands them a long to-do list. From taking multiple meds to making several lifestyle changes, it can seem like a lot. Patients may wonder: Is it really important to do every last thing on the list?
Exercise Safe, Even Helpful, for Heart Failure
For years, experts weren't certain if physical activity and heart failure were a good mix. Some feared that it could be dangerous for people with this disease. But now, there is much more evidence that exercise is not only safe but also beneficial in many ways. Physical activity can help heart failure patients.