Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE Archive
Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.
Will lowering blood cholesterol help me if I've already had a heart attack?
People who have had one heart attack are at much higher risk for a second attack. Reducing blood cholesterol levels can greatly slow down (and, in some people, even reverse) the buildup of cholesterol and fat in the walls of the coronary arteries and significantly reduce the chances of a second attack.
Do fat and cholesterol raise blood pressure?
It is not certain whether fats and cholesterol raise blood pressure, but they definitely affect your heart and blood vessels. Fats, primarily saturated, increase cholesterol level in your bloodstream and increases your chances of developing heart disease.
Is there really anything to what you hear about stress causing diseases?
Yes, sometimes stress may be harmful. Drastic changes, or too many lesser changes at one time, cause what is known as distress and may be a factor in ulcers, migraine headaches, infections, allergies, high blood pressure and heart disease. While stress is a fact of life, it can be managed with relaxation, exercise, sharing problems with others, etc. Above all, listen to your body, and, when, you're tense, slow down.
Children from high risk families (a parent with 240mg/dL or above) or in which a parent or grandparent has had heart disease at an early age (55 or younger) should have their cholesterol levels tested. If a child from such a family has a level that is high, it should be lowered under medical supervision, primarily with diet, to reduce the risk of developing heart disease as an adult.
Quite the contrary. Regular physical activity can reduce your risk of another attack, improve your chance of survival and give a boost to how you look and feel. An exercise program after a heart attack, however, should be under medical supervision.
Can I take aspirin if I'm also taking blood-thinning drugs?
Coumadin is a drug that thins your blood to help prevent clotting. Aspirin can also thin your blood and cause bleeding. Never take the two together and consult your doctor.
What is congestive heart failure?
Is does not mean that your heart stops beating, just that it is not pumping blood at the proper level. There are many possible causes, including but not limited to narrowed arteries, scar tissue from past heart attacks, high blood pressure, heart valve disorders and hereditary issues. Heart-healthy diets, reduction of sodium intake, rest and moderate exercise help manage CHF.
There actually are two vitamins, Vitamin B-6 and Folate, thought to have this trait. Your doctor can prescribe a specific dosage, plus these occur naturally in orange juice, green leafy vegetables, broccoli and eggs. You may wish to limit your intake of egg yolks if cholesterol is an issue.
Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.
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