Jump to section: Hypertension explained |Symptoms | Causes |Dangers | How to lower blood pressure | Foods and DASH diet | Medication About 45% of US adults have high blood pressure – that’s more than 108 million Americans. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the major risk factors […]

A pulse oximeter is a small device that can measure the oxygen saturation in your blood. Pulse oximetry is useful for people with chronic lung or heart conditions, who need to monitor how well oxygen is being sent from the heart and lungs out to the furthest parts of the […]

The healthiest way to brew your coffee involves a filter, according to a recent study in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. According to the study, unfiltered coffee can contain substances that increase blood cholesterol. Using a filter removes the particles and makes heart attacks and even premature death less […]

A pacemaker is a small device implanted in your chest that can send electrical signals into your heart if it isn’t beating properly. Pacemakers are made out of titanium, a lithium battery, and wires that are called leads. You may need a pacemaker if you have bradycardia, or a slow […]

You can exercise with AFib, or atrial fibrillation, a condition where the heart beats quickly and irregularly. Regular moderate exercise is generally considered safe and effective for treating AFib patients and managing the symptoms. However, intense exercise may carry an increased risk for those with AFib, and you should talk […]

Research has found that a lack of sleep is associated with high blood pressure and heart disease. Most adults should get about 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, yet about one-third of Americans do not. Sleep apnea and insomnia – two conditions that result in lack of sleep […]

Alcohol may not harm your heart if you drink moderately, and some research has even found heart benefits, though those results are debated. The American Heart Association recommends no more than one drink per day for women, and no more than two drinks per day for men. Research has found […]

You can lower your heart rate from anxiety with regular exercise, deep breathing techniques, and mindfulness meditation. Anixety can raise your heart rate over time and is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. A panic attack often comes with a very high heart rate, and may even feel […]

Caffeine, in moderate does, isn’t bad for your heart. In fact, research has found that coffee consumption – around three cups per day – can even be good for heart health. The FDA says that it’s safe to have about 400 milligrams of caffeine each day, although you should be […]

Marijuana raises heart rate and makes the heart pump harder. Some research has indicated that smoking marijuana — like smoking cigarettes — can increase your risk for heart disease. While marijuana use likely harms your heart, further research is needed to determine what it exactly does to cardiovascular health. This […]

ADHD medications rarely cause heart problems and are considered safe and effective, as long as they are taken as prescribed. However, if you’ve experienced heart problems before, or have an unstable heart condition, you should check in with your doctor before using ADHD medication. This article was medically reviewed by […]

Dark chocolate can be good for your heart when it’s consumed in moderation. Dark chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa than other chocolate, and cocoa is rich in antioxidants and flavanols, which have been associated with heart health. While eating lots of dark chocolate isn’t likely to improve heart […]

Heart rate variability measures the variance in time between each heartbeat. Research has found that a lower HRV is associated with anxiety disorders and earlier death from heart diseases, while a higher HRV may indicate better cardiovascular fitness and greater resilience to stress. However, HRV is a highly-specific measurement and […]

You should recover from a stent procedure by resting, staying away from vigorous physical activity, and following your doctor’s recommendations for medication. Many patients are able to recover from a stent and return to work within a week, though it may take longer for others. You’ll also want to look […]

You should prepare for a stent procedure by staying hydrated, talking with your doctor about medications to avoid, and making arrangements for after the surgery. Angioplasty and stent procedures are not especially taxing, but there can be complications. Here’s how to prepare for a stent so you can reduce your […]

A stent is a tiny mesh tube that is inserted into an artery to prop it open and improve blood flow to the heart. Stents can be life-saving during a heart attack, and this is a common treatment to restore blood flow when there’s a dangerous blockage. While not always […]

Chronic stress is a risk factor for heart disease and it may lead to a heart attack. Stress can cause high blood pressure, increase heart rate, and lead to overeating, smoking cigarettes, and drinking more alcohol — all of which are major risk factors for a heart attack. Sudden stress […]