Tag

Cardiology

All articles tagged with #cardiology

Experts Warn: Shortness of Breath Could Signal Heart Trouble—Act Now
health5 days ago

Experts Warn: Shortness of Breath Could Signal Heart Trouble—Act Now

Three cardiologists emphasize that heart disease can present with subtle signs, with new or worsened shortness of breath during everyday activities being a major red flag. They explain that SOB can reflect the heart failing to meet the body's oxygen needs, not just a lung issue, and that other warning signs include chest pain or discomfort, jaw/neck/back/arm pain, unusual fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, or cold sweats. Regardless of risk factors, if SOB appears or worsens, stop the activity, rest, and contact a healthcare provider, seeking emergency care if the symptoms are sudden or accompanied by other signs. Early recognition and prompt treatment can improve survival and reduce heart damage.}

New Multisociety Guideline Uses Five Acute PE Categories to Guide Care
cardiology8 days ago

New Multisociety Guideline Uses Five Acute PE Categories to Guide Care

A new joint ACC/AHA/peer-society guideline for evaluating and managing acute pulmonary embolism in adults introduces five Acute PE Clinical Categories (A–E) to stratify severity and guide therapy across emergency, inpatient, and post-acute settings. It recommends low-molecular-weight heparin over unfractionated heparin for initial anticoagulation, favors direct oral anticoagulants over vitamin K antagonists when appropriate, and supports continuing anticoagulation beyond 3–6 months for selected patients; it also emphasizes PE response teams (PERTs) and notes future evidence gaps.

Fatigue Mistaken for Aging Uncovered Rare Heart Condition in a Young Dad
health22 days ago

Fatigue Mistaken for Aging Uncovered Rare Heart Condition in a Young Dad

A Florida construction project manager in his early 30s blamed fatigue and weight gain on aging and new fatherhood, but after his symptoms worsened he was diagnosed with left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) and a genetic muscle disorder, leading to advanced heart failure. He underwent a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation to sustain circulation while awaiting a heart transplant, highlighting a rising trend of heart failure in younger adults driven by obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Blessing Hospital Performs First TEER Procedure to Repair Leaking Mitral Valve
business1 month ago

Blessing Hospital Performs First TEER Procedure to Repair Leaking Mitral Valve

Blessing Hospital in Quincy performed its first TEER (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair) to treat a leaky mitral valve on Jan. 19, led by cardiologist Dr. Jeffrey Cook, marking the hospital's expansion of minimally invasive heart care for patients who cannot undergo open-heart surgery; TEER can lessen symptoms such as shortness of breath, and previously patients often had to be referred to Barnes Hospital in St. Louis for this procedure.

New Study Finds Coffee May Protect Against Irregular Heartbeats
health3 months ago

New Study Finds Coffee May Protect Against Irregular Heartbeats

A US study suggests that drinking coffee may reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats, specifically atrial fibrillation, challenging the common advice to avoid caffeine for those with the condition. The Decaf trial found coffee drinkers had a lower recurrence of irregular heartbeats and longer intervals before episodes, though limitations exist. The findings could influence future dietary recommendations for individuals with atrial fibrillation.

Heart Failure: Hidden Risks, Early Signs, and Prevention
health4 months ago

Heart Failure: Hidden Risks, Early Signs, and Prevention

Heart failure is more common than many realize and can be life-threatening if not detected early. Recognizing symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, and irregular heartbeat is crucial. Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol. Preventive lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, eating a low-salt diet, avoiding tobacco, and managing stress can reduce risk. Early consultation with a healthcare provider is vital for better outcomes and improved quality of life.

Cardiologists' Secret Drug for Staying Healthy
health4 months ago

Cardiologists' Secret Drug for Staying Healthy

Many healthy cardiologists and physicians are taking statins proactively to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk, even without high cholesterol levels, based on the concept of 'LDL years' and overall risk factors. While statins are generally safe and supported by extensive research, their use should be personalized, considering individual risk profiles and lifestyle factors.

7 Unexpected Signs of Atrial Fibrillation to Watch For
health5 months ago

7 Unexpected Signs of Atrial Fibrillation to Watch For

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat that can be life-threatening due to its association with increased stroke risk. Common signs include heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and sometimes no symptoms at all. Risk factors include age, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, alcohol use, thyroid issues, and sleep apnea. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications, and individuals should consult a doctor if they experience symptoms or have risk factors.

September's AFib Awareness: Signs, Treatments, and Advances in Care
health5 months ago

September's AFib Awareness: Signs, Treatments, and Advances in Care

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat that can be symptomless but increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and dementia. Common signs include heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and underlying medical conditions. Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial, especially for those over 50 or with risk factors, as early detection and treatment can significantly reduce serious health risks.