MMP9 Levels Associated with Risk of Atherosclerotic Plaque Rupture
A great deal of effort goes into preparing for atherosclerotic plaques to rupture, and then coping with the consequences of the resulting stroke or heart attack, and all too little effort into reversal of plaque formation. Researchers here examine plaque rupture in structural detail in a group of patients with sufficiently detailed prior imaging data to determine what happened at the site of rupture. This is less interesting than the associated data showing that raised levels of MMP-9 appear to be predictive of risk of plaque rupture. Whether this means that inhibiting MMP-9 can reduce that risk is an interesting question,...
Source: Fight Aging! - July 17, 2023 Category: Research Authors: Reason Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs

Alpha-Blockers For High Blood Pressure: Types, Side Effects, Drug Interactions
Conclusion To summarize, the treatment of hypertension is a critical aspect of healthcare due to its significant impact on cardiovascular health. While natural supplements and lifestyle modifications are important for overall well-being, the use of chemical drugs in managing hypertension remains necessary. Chemical drugs for hypertension have undergone extensive research and have been proven effective in lowering blood pressure levels. Alpha-blockers offer a targeted approach to address the specific mechanisms involved in hypertension, allowing for precise blood pressure control. They work by inhibiting the ...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 17, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: Blood Pressure Source Type: blogs

Yoghurt: A Delicious Solution To High Blood Pressure?
Conclusion In a nutshell, the humble pot of yoghurt could be a powerful tool in the fight against high blood pressure. From its impressive mineral content to the potential blood-pressure-lowering action of its amino acids, yoghurt has proven to be more than just a tasty snack. However, as we’ve learned from Dr. Lee, the type and quantity of yoghurt we consume matters. The takeaway? Dietary choices can significantly impact our health, making conscious consumption essential. Now, you might view that bowl of yoghurt in a new light, not only for its delicious taste but also for its potential health-...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 16, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: Blood Pressure Source Type: blogs

Fight Aging! Newsletter, July 17th 2023
In conclusion, the longevity-associated genotype of FLT1 may confer increased lifespan by protecting against mortality risk posed by hypertension. We suggest that FLT1 expression in individuals with longevity genotype boosts vascular endothelial resilience mechanisms to counteract hypertension-related stress in vital organs and tissues. Resistance Exercise Slows the Onset of Pathology in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease https://www.fightaging.org/archives/2023/07/resistance-exercise-slows-the-onset-of-pathology-in-a-mouse-model-of-alzheimers-disease/ With the caveat that mouse models of Alzheimer'...
Source: Fight Aging! - July 16, 2023 Category: Research Authors: Reason Tags: Newsletters Source Type: blogs

Primary Hypertension: The Unseen Risk For Healthy People
Conclusion In conclusion, even the healthiest individuals can develop primary hypertension, a condition that affects a significant portion of the U.S. adult population. With its roots often hidden in our genetic makeup and influenced by various lifestyle factors, hypertension can quietly disrupt our wellbeing, earning its nickname as the “silent killer.” Real-life experiences, such as Martin Cassels’, highlight that maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle doesn’t render one immune to this condition. However, it underscores the importance of regular health check-ups and the value of a second o...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 13, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: News Source Type: blogs

HHS Again Suspends Disbelief: The Medicaid Program Will Ignore the Greatest Health Threat to Medicaid Beneficiaries
BY DAVID INTROCASO In May the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) simultaneously published two proposed Medicaid rules (here and here) intended to improve moreover access and quality.  Both discussed at length the agency’s commitment to “addressing health equity.”  The first sentence in both identified health equity as a Medicaid program priority.  The proposed “ensuring access” rule stated CMS “takes a comprehensive approach to . . . better addressing health equity issues in the Medicaid program.”  CMS went on to state “we are working to advance health equity by designing, implementing,...
Source: The Health Care Blog - July 12, 2023 Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Ryan Bose-Roy Tags: Health Policy Biden Administration Centers for Medicare and Social Services Climate Change David Introcaso Source Type: blogs

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) For High Blood Pressure: Types, Side Effects, Drug Interactions
Conclusion Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become a leading cause of death globally, necessitating the adoption of preventive measures, early detection, and effective management strategies. Hypertension, a significant risk factor for CVD, requires active management to mitigate associated risks. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) have emerged as a favored choice among healthcare professionals due to their effectiveness and unique benefits. ARBs offer several advantages compared to other blood pressure medications. They effectively control blood pressure, protect vital organs such as the heart and kidneys, ...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 11, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: Blood Pressure Source Type: blogs

Longevity-Associated FLT1 Variant May Protect Against Hypertension Consequences
In conclusion, the longevity-associated genotype of FLT1 may confer increased lifespan by protecting against mortality risk posed by hypertension. We suggest that FLT1 expression in individuals with longevity genotype boosts vascular endothelial resilience mechanisms to counteract hypertension-related stress in vital organs and tissues. Link: https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.204722 (Source: Fight Aging!)
Source: Fight Aging! - July 10, 2023 Category: Research Authors: Reason Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs

ACE Inhibitors For High Blood Pressure: Types, Side Effects, Drug Interactions
Conclusion In conclusion, the rising utilization of blood pressure medications reflects a growing awareness of the importance of managing hypertension for overall health. ACE inhibitors, among other drug classes, are widely used due to their effectiveness in lowering blood pressure and providing additional benefits for heart and kidney health. It’s essential to consult your doctor before starting or adjusting ACE inhibitor treatment to ensure personalized care and monitor for potential side effects or drug interactions. Taking ACE inhibitors as prescribed, following consistent dosing schedules, and attend...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 9, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: Blood Pressure Source Type: blogs

How To Spot The Common Signs Of High Blood Pressure
This routine daily behaviour found to be a sign of high blood pressure and stroke. (Source: PsyBlog | Psychology Blog)
Source: PsyBlog | Psychology Blog - July 8, 2023 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Mina Dean Tags: Blood Pressure Source Type: blogs

This was texted to me by a former resident. An 80-something woman who presented with chest pain and dyspnea.
This was texted to me.  An 80-something woman who presented with chest pain and dyspnea.What do you think?The rhythm appears to be atrial fibrillation.  In any case, it is clearly a supraventricular rhythm.  There is significant ST depression in V2-V4.  Is this posterior OMI?Before jumping to any conclusions about the significance of ST-T abnormalities, you must first be certain that they are not a result of (secondary to) any QRS abnormalities. Do you see any such abnormalities?There is a large R-wave in V1.  Is this RBBB?  No, it is not RBBB.  The QRS is not wide enough, there are no wi...
Source: Dr. Smith's ECG Blog - July 7, 2023 Category: Cardiology Authors: Steve Smith Source Type: blogs

Medicare Advantage Plans Can Leverage Virtual Cardiometabolic Care
BY RICHARD FRANK By relying on virtual cardiometabolic solutions for continuous care, Medicare Advantage can produce better outcomes, curb costs, enhance member satisfaction — and improve Star ratings in the process. By Richard Frank, MD, Chief Medical Officer Vida Health Medicare Advantage is a hot market. Enrollment is steadily climbing and Medicare Advantage (MA) members now make up half the Medicare population. Though members keep rolling in, competition among MA plans is tight and turnover remains high. Nearly 16% of MA members switch plans at least once during their first year, while over a third end up sw...
Source: The Health Care Blog - July 5, 2023 Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Ryan Bose-Roy Tags: Health Policy Cariometabolic conditions Medicare Advantage Richard Frank Source Type: blogs

Processed Foods Linked To Increased Blood Pressure, Study Finds
Conclusions This groundbreaking study highlights the link between high consumption of processed foods and increased blood pressure variability, particularly at night. The findings emphasize the crucial role of diet and lifestyle in cardiovascular health. Interestingly, researchers noted an unexpected association: higher consumption of ultra-processed foods was linked to less variation in night-time blood pressure. This puzzling finding suggests a need for further investigation into the effects of ultra-processed foods on our health. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of prioritizing unproc...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 4, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: News Source Type: blogs

Study Uncovers: Brushing Teeth Twice Daily Reduces Heart Disease Risk
Conclusion The study came full circle, offering an emphatic conclusion. While a morning brush is a good start, brushing before bedtime takes the crown when it comes to preventing heart diseases. The act of brushing your teeth, so mundane yet so essential, emerges as a key soldier in the battle against heart disease. The findings beckon us to look at our toothbrushes differently – as tools of preventative care rather than just instruments of oral hygiene. The message is clear – taking care of our teeth could mean taking care of our hearts. After all, our health, as this study suggests, is a...
Source: The EMT Spot - July 4, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: News Source Type: blogs

Can You Drink Licorice With Hypertension?
Conclusion It’s clear that licorice, with its potent compound glycyrrhizin, can potentially raise blood pressure. This makes it a food item to approach with caution for those living with hypertension. But, remember, not all “licorice” you see on shelves contains real licorice root or extract. Checking labels can help identify those sneaky substitutes. Moderation and informed choices are your allies. While occasional licorice consumption might be fine for some, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider to ensure you’re not jeopardizing your well-being. Delicious alternatives...
Source: The EMT Spot - June 24, 2023 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Michael Rotman, MD, FRCPC, PhD Tags: Blood Pressure Source Type: blogs