When the Cause of Chest Pain Is Not a Heart Attack
When you or a loved one experiences chest pain, it’s natural to think a heart attack is to blame. Heart attacks can be deadly, so seeking immediate attention could save lives. But heart attack isn’t the only cause of chest pain. Pressure, discomfort and pain can be triggered by conditions completely unrelated to the heart. […]
Get the Wheels Turning to Reap the Health Benefits of Cycling
Physical activity is an important part of maintaining good overall health. But let’s face it: If you don’t enjoy your exercise routine, you’re unlikely to stick with it. Cycling is a fun form of exercise that has drawn an increasing following in recent years, becoming so popular during the pandemic that bike stores ran out […]
Is Your Blood Pressure Too Low?
We hear a lot about the dangers of high blood pressure, but is it also possible to have blood pressure too low? In general, low blood pressure is better than high blood pressure, but there are a few exceptions. What to Know About Low Blood Pressure A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120 […]
Are Antibiotics Before Dental Work Really Necessary?
For a long time, people with risk factors for heart conditions were told to take antibiotics before dental work to protect against complications from dental procedures. But is it still necessary to take do so? The answer is a little complex. While taking antibiotics to prevent, rather than treat, an illness (also called prophylactic or […]
What You Should Know About Heart Strength and Surgery
After years battling osteoarthritis in your knee, you now need a knee replacement. But you also have heart disease. Is your heart strong enough for you to undergo surgery? As part of the preparation for any type of surgical procedure, patients undergo comprehensive pre-surgical testing that helps ensure good overall health and stability prior to […]
At What Age Should I See a Cardiologist for Cardiac Care?
You hit the big 4-0, or maybe even the big 5-0, and now you’re wondering whether it’s time to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist. The decision about seeing a cardiac care specialist is more dependent on the health of your heart than your age. While it’s true that older age is a risk factor […]
How to Exercise for Heart Health
When you’ve had a heart attack, starting to exercise again may be the last thing on your mind, but it’s important. Exercise for heart health is a key part of helping you recover. Think of it this way: when you’re trying to strengthen a part of your body like your biceps, you perform exercises that […]
What Is a “Good” Heart Rate?
In the past, most of us had no idea what our heart rate was. But these days, with fitness trackers and smartwatches galore, it’s easy to check your pulse with a glance at your wrist. So, what is a good heart rate? The short answer is: It varies. A “good” heart rate for you will […]
Simple Ways to Improve Your Heart Health
Your heart is the engine that keeps your body running. A healthy heart means every other part of your body is getting the blood and oxygen it needs to perform at its best. However, good heart health isn’t something you can take for granted. Having a healthy heart requires making good decisions every day, and […]
Your Guide to Preparing for Cardiac Rehab
When you have a health condition impacting your heart, you naturally have lots of questions and concerns on your mind. As you recover after a cardiac event or a surgical procedure, your medical team may recommend cardiac rehab, a program supervised by medical professionals designed to strengthen cardiovascular wellness after a heart complication. What Is […]