The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood to the entire body through a network of arteries and veins. This network contains big vessels which branch out further to supply blood to the distant organs. There is, therefore, some pressure that the heart and thereby the vessels need to exert to push the blood through these vessels. This is known as blood pressure, and normal pressure levels range from 90-140(systolic)/60-90(diastolic) mm of Hg. However, due to various reasons, this pressure could be more, which is one of the first signs of heart disease. 

Causes of increased blood pressure: 

Thickening of the blood vessels. With age, the elastic blood vessels naturally turn rigid and less elastic, so there is more pressure required to push blood. It is natural for people over 55 years of age to have higher readings of blood pressure. This is known as primary hypertension (HTN) 
Narrowed blood vessels. This happens due to cholesterol accumulation along the walls of the blood vessels. Faulty dietary habits along with sedentary lifestyle have increased the incidence of hypertension due to this condition, known as atherosclerosis. Critical atherosclerotic narrowing of renal arteries lead to renovascular HTN that is one of the commonest of secondary HTN. 
Other Causes of secondary hypertension are: 

Kidney problems 
Thyroid hormone disorders 
Congenital heart defects 
Chronic alcohol abuse 
Adrenal gland tumours 
Chronic use of medications like birth control pills, pain killers, etc. 
Unidentified and uncontrolled hypertension can be silent and can lead to more severe conditions like heart attack and stroke. India is fast becoming the new hypertension capital of the world. Some of the common risk factors are: 

Age 
Family history 
Being obese or overweight 
Sedentary lifestyle 
Smoking 
Alcohol consumption 
Excessive salt intake 
Stress levels 
Ethnic background 
Symptoms: 

Hypertension can go undetected for years together, but if there are risk factors like diabetes and high cholesterol, it is advisable to periodically monitor blood pressure. 
Headaches, nosebleeds, and shortness of breath should not be ignored. These can be the first warning signs of hypertension, and if detected early, preventive measures can be taken. 
If there are co-morbid risk factors, it is advisable to constantly keep a check on BP readings. 
Management: 

This includes a combination of diet and lifestyle modifications. 

Quit smoking and alcohol: Of the many wonders quitting smoking can do, reducing BP readings is just one. The improvement would be almost instantaneous. Quit or else reduce alcohol and see dramatic improvements. 
Weight management: Through a combination of diet and exercise, ensure that weight is brought under control. Set a target BMI (Below 26 kg/m2) and work towards it religiously. 
Diet: Reduce salt, increase potassium, increase vitamin D, eat a heart-healthy diet, and see the hypertension readings improve. Please find attached and reviewed copy for health tip for posting

High Blood Pressure - All You Need To Know About It!

The veins are a type of blood vessels which collect impure blood from all parts of the body and return it to the heart. The veins in the legs especially are quite thick and need to exert extra pressure to pump blood against gravity towards the heart. In quite a few people, these veins could be engorged, swollen, and twisted, which are known medically as varicose veins.

Causes:
Defective or damaged valves in the blood vessels. Normally, the blood flow is controlled by valves which ensure blood flows in the desirable direction. When these valves are not able to control the flow of blood, then varicose veins can return
Thin vein walls can lead to improper flow of blood, resulting in varicose veins

Risk factors:

Prolonged standing
Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Surgery in the leg, which could have hampered the values or veins
Age, as the elasticity of the vessels, reduces with age and can impede normal blood flow
Family history
Symptoms:

Blue, swollen veins in the legs which are thin and ropy
Pain with prolonged standing followed by pain and tenderness
Itching and heaviness in the legs
Cramping in the night
Blood clots in the superficial vessels
Severe varicose veins can cause bleeding
The area around the leg feels firm and/or hard
There could be skin changes like scaling, dryness, and color changes
Increased propensity to bleed in the affected leg
Diagnosis:

Usually easily diagnosed in clinical examination
The above-listed features are very characteristic and help in identifying them
Further testing may be done to identify the problematic valve, usually using a tourniquet
Doppler ultrasound, scanning, and MRI may be required to confirm diagnosis, which are quite rarely used
Prevention/Treatment:

Keep the legs elevated as much as possible. During working hours, take short breaks where you are able to elevate the legs
Even in prolonged journeys, try to take a break which will improve circulation
Quit smoking
Compression stocking (Ted hose or Jobst stocking) can be used to improve circulation. They also help in controlling pain and are very commonly recommended to treat varicose veins
Avoiding alcohol, which leads to venous dilation
Weight management, as being overweight is a big risk factor
Do not cross legs when sitting, as it puts constant pressure on the valves
Avoid tight clothing which can put pressure on the veins and/or valves
Keep a regular exercise regimen like walking to improve blood flow
Surgical treatment options include sclerotherapy, laser treatment, and stripping off the vein, but are not usually required.

Varicose Veins - 9 Signs You Are Suffering From It!

Your diet plays a major role in the health of your heart, so eating healthy should be somewhere on the top of the list for keeping your heart healthy as well. There are numerous heart disorders that occur due to unhealthy food patterns and consumption. Lifestyle factors are the major causes of heart disease, and diet occupies an almost compelling spot when lifestyle factors are taken into consideration. Here is a list of foods that keeps your heart healthy:

Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids are very important for your heart to function optimally. Fishes such as salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which lower the risk of heart diseases such as arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) and atherosclerosis (accumulation of plaque in the arterial walls).

Oats: Like oats and milk for breakfast!? Congratulations! You are in luck; oatmeal has soluble fibers which help in lowering bad cholesterol levels. Just make sure that there is no added sugar in your oatmeal, as it will defeat the entire purpose.

Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants that reduce the risks of heart attack and also decrease your blood pressure. So go ahead! Toss some blueberries in your oatmeal to get your daily dose of antioxidants which are such pre-requisites for supreme health.

Dark Chocolate: This will probably bring a smile to your lips. Dark chocolates contain polyphenols, a type of flavonoid, which is very good for your heart. Dark chocolate is known to reduce the risks of strokes and heart attacks. Watch the portion size as no matter what its benefits are, dark chocolates are still rich in calories.

Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits such as lemons and Indian gooseberry are rich in compounds that lower cholesterol levels in the body. Tip   Start your day with a lemon juice and warm water. This betters your metabolism and also keeps your heart in fine shape.

Soy: Lo Behold Vegetarians! (and non-vegetarians as well). Soy is a protein rich food that is so good for your heart. It also contains heart-healthy fats and fibers that help bring down and normalize cholesterol levels.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in an antioxidant called  lycopene , which is very effective in getting rid of bad cholesterol. It thus helps in keeping your arteries healthy and reduces the risks of heart attacks.

Nuts: Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are rich in Vitamin E which helps in lowering bad cholesterol in the body. Avoid nuts that come with added salt.

Foods That Help You Maintain A Healthy Heart

It is said that if all the veins of the human body were laid out in a single line, it would stretch over 60000 miles. We don t usually think of our veins or notice them unless an intravenous injection is to be administered or the person suffers from varicose veins. These veins are usually benign and can be described as enlarged veins that rise to the surface, and become prominently visible. The varicose veins can usually be seen on the feet and calves. For most people, it is simply a cosmetic problem but for others it can be the cause of pain and discomfort. The good news is that in either case, varicose veins can be treated.

EVLT refers to Endovenous Laser Therapy, which is also known as EVLA or Endovenous Laser Ablation. This is a type of laser therapy that can be used to destroy veins from within. The procedure is performed while the patient is under local anesthesia and hospitalization is not required. Know the steps in which it is carried out:

The first stage involves mapping the veins and identifying the problem veins. A Duplex Ultrasound is usually used to create this map. It is important to note that this procedure cannot treat bulging veins on the surface of the skin. The veins that can be treated include the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), Small Saphenous Vein (SSV) and their major tributaries.
Once the veins have been identified a needle is inserted into the vein near the ankle or knee with the help of ultrasound controls. A wire is then passed into the vein and a long sheath is then passed to the top, and positioned with the help of the ultrasound.
Ultrasound is again used to then inject local anesthetic into the area around the vein. This numbs the vein and surrounding tissue. The adrenaline in it also makes the vein contract, so as to fit the sheath perfectly. This technique is called  Tumescent anesthesia .
This is followed by passing a laser fiber inside the sheath and switching the laser on. The laser and sheath are then pulled back simultaneously so as to destroy the vein without damaging any of the surrounding tissues.
Once done, you should be able to get back to work and your normal lifestyle, the day after the surgery. But it is advisable to take good rest for few days, before you get back to your regular routine. Your doctor may advise you to wear compression stockings for up to 2 weeks. You should also avoid letting your legs come in contact with water. To avoid getting varicose veins in future, exercise regularly and have a balanced diet to control your weight.

EVLT Endovenous Laser Treatment For Varicose Veins!

The news of Sridevi's sudden and unexpected demise was a shock for the entire nation and left a number of questions in the minds of the people. However, there are multiple reasons which are under speculation and can be attributed to her death - cardiac arrest, heart attack and death due to accidental drowning. Usually, cardiac arrest and heart attack are two things which most people use interchangeably, however, there is a big difference between the two. 

Difference between cardiac arrest and heart attack: 
A cardiac arrest is far deadlier considering that it comes without a warning or any prior indication of a problem. Here, the heart just stops beating and immediate first-aid can make a lot of difference between life and death. Electrical shock is the best way to revive a patient and should be given within a few minutes of such an arrest. 

On the other hand, a person suffers a heart attack when there is a blockage in the artery which prevents the smooth flow of oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart. It is important to note that unlike a cardiac arrest the signs of heart attack start slow and persists for long. 

A heart attack is one of the common causes of cardiac arrest, but not always it is the case. A cardiac arrest happens most commonly when the heart is receiving more than 300 impulses per minute or due to absent electrical impulses. In the first instance an electrical shock is a lifesaving technique and in the second, the patient can be treated with certain medications and a temporary pacemaker. 

Symptoms of cardiac arrest:
The symptoms of cardiac arrest are immediate and extreme.

A fainting spell or a sudden collapse
Loss of consciousness
No pulse or breathing 
Symptoms of a heart attack 

Discomfort along with chest pain 
Shortness of breath
Nausea with vomiting
Sweating
Headache and jawpain
Prevention of a cardiac arrest:
What makes this a deadly condition is that you cannot tell your risks of having one and therefore the next best thing to do is to lower your risks. 
The best way to do that is to:

Follow a diet that is balanced and nutritious
Alcohol should be consumed in moderation 
Quit smoking
Stay physically active
How can you prevent a heart attack?

Keep yourself fit and exercise regularly
Keep your cholesterol level under check 
Limit your alcohol intake 
If you are obese, control your weight
Intake a heart-friendly diet.
Now that the distinction is clear between the two, it is recommended that everyone should get themselves screened for potential heart problems on a regular basis. In case of a query or concern consult an expert and get your answers. 

Cardiac Arrest And Heart Attack - Understanding The Difference Between The Two!

5 Signs of an Unhealthy Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that helps to pump blood through the circulatory system by periodic contractions and relaxations. The heart is one of the most important organs of the body so much so that a single cardiac arrest or a heart attack can lead to fatal consequences. Even so, a heart attack is one of the most leading causes of death in the country. But there are some earlier symptoms that could alert you ahead of time. The following are signs of an unhealthy heart:

1. Sexual problems

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most predictable reasons for cardiovascular conditions. Today, patients who are diagnosed with ED are also considered as cardiovascular patients. This is because the heart is supposedly not able to pump enough blood to the genital area. In case of women, reduced blood flow can hamper arousal and delay orgasms.

2. Snoring and sleep apnea

If one snores loudly enough to prevent their partner's from sleeping or resort to using earplugs, one may be at a risk of having a weak heart. Restricted breathing during sleep is connected with a host of cardiovascular diseases. Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops for a brief span of time, is linked with higher cardiovascular risks.

3. Swollen, sore and bleeding gums

Swollen and bleeding gums are not only symptoms of dental conditions but also of cardiovascular difficulties. Medical experts believe poor circulation of blood arises due to underlying heart conditions. Recent studies are focusing on bacteria that are believed to cause gum disease as well as plaque inside the arteries of the heart.

4. Heart Arrhythmia

Irregular heartbeat or heart arrhythmia is a common sign of a weak heart. It is characterized by both fast and slow beating of the heart. Restricted blood flow to the heart strains the electrical signals that maintain the normal beating of the heart. This is one of the common causes of coronary artery diseases.

5. Chest pain

One of the most apparent signs of coronary artery diseases is chest pain. The cause of the sharp, clutching pain in your chest can be build-up of plaque in the arteries, which could lead to fatal consequences.



5 Signs of an Unhealthy Heart

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