More dental problems as you get older? Aging may not be the real reason
That's good news — but it also means that seniors need to be more vigilant than ever about oral health.
Over the past 20 years, the portion of adults 65 and older with no teeth fell from about 32% to an all-time low of 17%, according to the most recent report from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Among those 75 and older, it fell from 38% to 22%.
'More people are keeping more of their teeth for longer,' said Dr. Don Curtis, a professor at UCSF School of Dentistry. 'So there's more teeth to take care of and more teeth that are vulnerable to chronic disease.'
Older adults are at higher risk than younger populations for developing many dental problems, including periodontal disease (gum disease), root cavities and oral cancer. About 66% of U.S. adults 75 and older have periodontitis (serious gum disease) compared to 42% in the overall adult population, according to one 2016 estimate.
Aging may not be the reason
These dental issues aren't necessarily due to aging itself, but rather other things that often happen with your overall health, mobility, dexterity and cognition as you age that can in turn affect your oral health, dentists say.
For example, many older adults take multiple prescription medications to manage chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis. One of the most common side effects of using multiple medications is dry mouth, or having less saliva (hyposalivation), which can make you more susceptible to cavities — one major contributor to losing teeth.
Even some common medications for allergies can disrupt saliva flow, as can SSRIs, a class of antidepressants whose side effects can include grinding and clenching. Grinding over time can wear down tooth enamel and make a person more vulnerable to tooth loss.
'Hundreds of medications can cause disturbed salivary flow,' said Dr. Elisa Chavez, a professor at the University of Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco. 'Often, people aren't thinking about it or it doesn't strike them as critical. But these are things that can increase risk of developing cavities.'
More than 30% of patients over age 60 suffer from dry mouth, according to one 2014 study in the Journal of Dentistry.
Gum recession also tends to become more common with age. Recession exposes more of the roots of the teeth where plaque accumulates, which can cause decay and heighten the risk of gum disease.
'The average 70-year-old is more vulnerable to decay because of gum recession than a 7-year-old,' Curtis said. 'Everyone thinks once they're an adult they're not going to get cavities anymore but that's not the case.'
Studies have also found that people with diabetes, a chronic condition that's more common in older adults, are at higher risk for gum disease and loose teeth.
Some older adults also have problems with mobility because of arthritis or tremors, which can make it harder to brush and floss regularly or get to the dentist as often as they used to.
Cognitive impairment can also complicate matters, making it harder to remember daily oral hygiene or to point out a new problem, like bleeding gums. One 2013 study found that among homebound elderly adults, 96% said they had not seen a dentist since becoming homebound.
'For patients who have significant cognitive issues, having regular dental visits are important because they may not be able to identify things like a well older adult would,' Chavez said. 'Those opportunities for intervention early on are really important in that population.'
But, perhaps hearteningly, 'Poor oral health is not an inevitability of aging,' Chavez said.
'You can maintain good oral health,' she said. 'The thing is to identify risk factors — the presence of chronic diseases that result in loss of ability to care for yourself or get regular care, and medications that can have an impact.'
Interdental brushes, and other solutions
Let your dentist know if you've been diagnosed with a new condition or started any new medications since you last saw them, Chavez said. This includes flagging any changes in your ability to maintain daily oral hygiene.
'Dentists and hygienists can give you points and ideas about oral hygiene aids,' she said.
For older adults with limited dexterity, for instance, at-home tools like interdental brushes, oral rinses, irrigation devices and power toothbrushes can be helpful, according to a 2021 study led by UCSF's Curtis that examined how to treat older adults with periodontal disease.
Curtis recommends using an electric toothbrush with a timer.
'Without a timer, many people often think they spent adequate time but they haven't so they're leaving plaque, which is what leads to potential decay and inflammation associated with periodontal disease,' he said.
After eating, brush first, then floss, then brush a little more, Curtis said. This is because flossing helps break up plaque colonies between the teeth.
If you grind your teeth, consider a night guard, which can help lessen damage and tooth loss.
Older adults with gum recession can also ask their dentist about a high-fluoride varnish.
In 2022, a Department of Veterans Affairs study of about 68,000 older adults found that the topic varnish applied over the roots helped decrease decay by 29% over a three-year period.
'Dentures are not a foregone conclusion,' Chavez said. 'We can maintain oral health into older ages and that's exactly what we want to do.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Cosmopolitan
4 days ago
- Cosmopolitan
How to Orgasm, According to Certified Sex Experts
Orgasms are great. Not being able to have one = less great. Whether you've never experienced a climax, struggle to get there with a partner, or suddenly feel like your orgasm has packed its bags and peaced TF out, know this: You're not broken, you're not weird, and you're most definitely not alone. In fact, difficulty reaching orgasm and trying to figure out how to cum is super common—and totally normal. 'Stress, anxiety, fatigue, hormonal shifts, medications like SSRIs, relationship dynamics, even just plain old distractions can all impact your ability to climax,' says certified sex educator Evie Plumb, founder of Cliterally the Best. 'There's a lot going on behind the scenes when it comes to orgasm—it's a full-body and full-mind experience.' Clinical sexologist Lucy Rowett agrees, adding that shame and pressure are also major blockers. 'A big part of being able to orgasm is being able to let go, and for many people, that is hard.' So if getting off feels a little (or a lot) elusive lately, we've got you. Ahead, some of our favorite expert-backed tips, tools, sex toys, and tricks to help you understand how to orgasm and, more importantly IMO, how to actually enjoy the process of figuring it out. Because yes, reaching the big O can be a journey, but we promise the destination is worth the hype. It sounds backwards, but hear us out: The more pressure you put on yourself to orgasm, the harder it gets (literally and emotionally). An orgasm isn't a goal to grind toward—it's something that happens when you're relaxed, present, and tuned into pleasure. 'Focus on feeling good instead of reaching the finish line,' says Plumb. This helps take the anxiety out of the equation which, ironically, might be the exact thing blocking your orgasm in the first place. And FYI, it's totally normal to plateau along the way (aka, that stage where you're turned on but not quite tipping over the edge). Stick with what got you close and give yourself time. On average, it can take about 20 minutes of direct clitoral stimulation for people with vulvas to climax, so don't rush it. If you're with a partner, consider trading off nights where the focus is fully on one person at a time. Zero pressure, maximum pleasure. Here's the deal: Most people with vulvas need clitoral stimulation to orgasm. 'Having sex with a vagina without touching the clitoris is like stimulating a penis without ever touching the head,' says psychotherapist Amanda Luterman, founder of the Center for Erotic Empathy. Sure, penetration can feel good, but orgasms? Those usually need a little help from the clit. That doesn't mean you have to go above and beyond. Even in the missionary position, the friction from grinding pelvises can do the trick (especially if you try something like the coital alignment technique). But if penetration alone isn't cutting it, try adding vibration into the mix. A palm-sized vibrator or a vibrating ring worn on your partner's penis or dildo can deliver the right kind of pressure without getting in the way of all that good stuff happening inside. Never underestimate the power of a good tease. Touching the outer lips of the vulva (aka the labia majora) might not get you to orgasm on its own, but giving this erogenous zone a little love can seriously level up your arousal. 'Incorporate the fleshy deliciousness of touch, which is very erotic for people,' says Luterman. For a slow build, have your partner use their index and middle fingers in a 'V' shape to gently trace along both the inner and outer lips. And if your clit feels too sensitive for direct stimulation (totally normal, btw), try pressing or rubbing over the clitoral hood instead. As Luterman explains, this creates indirect pressure—kind of like how foreskin works during un-lubed masturbation with a penis. Take time to explore what feels good for you, then bring that knowledge into partnered play. Want better sex? Start talking about it—both outside the bedroom and in the heat of the moment. 'When you normalize talking about sex—especially when you're not having it—you create space to actually say what you want during it,' says sex coach Myisha Battle. And while you're at it, stop holding back your sounds. 'If you're blocking your sounds, you're likely blocking your orgasm,' adds sex educator Rachel Wright. Making noise isn't just hot; it boosts blood flow to all the right places and helps you stay in the moment. Same goes for your breath. Holding it or panting too fast can kill circulation (and the vibe). Sex coach Azaria Menezes recommends slowing it way down. Deep, intentional breaths not only keep your brain and clit happy, but they also ground you in your body, which is exactly where you want to be when you're trying to cum. If you're still relying on fingers alone and wondering why your orgasms aren't hitting like they should— it might be time to level up. Vibrators aren't just a fun accessory; they're a straight-up orgasm accelerator. Whether you're flying solo or getting down with a partner, using a vibrator can add way more sensation, take some pressure off your boo to 'perform,' and help you reach that elusive peak without overthinking it. Not sure where to start? Look for toys designed specifically for clitoral stimulation, since that's how the vast majority of people with vaginas orgasm. One standout: the Lelo Sona Cruise, which uses sonic waves to mimic the feeling of oral sex and zero in on the clit with precision. If you've never used a toy before, this one's like diving into the deep end—in the best way. Bottom line? If you want to orgasm more consistently (and like, harder), it's time to bring in some reinforcements. Your clit will thank you. If you're stuck overthinking during sex, it might be time to shift the focus back to your body. 'Keep bringing your attention back to what pleasurable sensations you can feel and let yourself enjoy them,' explains Rowett. Orgasms happen when the brain and body are actually communicating, not when you're mentally rearranging the fridge mid-foreplay. Turn off your phone, the lights, even blindfold yourself if you'd like. You want to be in the moment focusing on sensations, so all those little distractions can actually add up and prevent you from getting off. One way to stay present is to notice where you're holding tension. When we're close to climax, we tend to grip and chase it—but that can backfire. Try softening your touch, moving your hips, or sighing out through your mouth to help energy flow more freely, Rowett says. Of course, stress makes this even harder. Whether it's work, family drama, or your partner forgetting to switch the laundry again, stress can majorly block orgasms. Help your nervous system chill before you get down to business—walk it off, dance it out à la Grey's, take a hot shower, whatever. As Dr. Jenni Skyler, a sex therapist for Adam & Eve, puts it: 'Orgasm is about surrender. When we try to control too many aspects of our life, this can leak over into orgasm function.' TL;DR: Release the stress, release the need to control, and your orgasm might just release a little easier too. Once you've released the tension and quieted the chaos in your brain, the next step is to guide your attention on purpose. Orgasms aren't just physical—they're mental, too. 'Too much mind chatter is one of the quickest ways to interrupt your access to pleasure and orgasm,' says sex coach Tamica Wilder. That's why, once you've shaken out the stress, it's time to recenter your focus. But don't confuse this with trying to disconnect or 'stop thinking'—that rarely works. Instead, Luterman recommends practicing 'mindful relaxation with an erotic anticipation.' That means actively choosing to focus on what turns you on. Because, as she explains, 'Whatever you're thinking about or looking at is directly going to impact whether or not you're turned on.' So try this: Watch your partner's hands as they move across your body. Tune into the rhythm of the music. Feel the sheets against your skin. Create a mental movie out of the moment, and let it be hot. This is your personal highlight reel, after all. So you've released the tension, recentered your focus, and tapped into what actually turns you on. Now it's time to let your brain run wild (in the best way possible). Despite what some people think, fantasizing during sex doesn't mean you're doing it wrong—or that you're mentally cheating. It just means you're human, and you're allowed to use your imagination. You can also draw on memory or imagination. Revisit that one time in Cabo with your SO, fantasize about what might happen next, or conjure up a totally new scene starring Ryan Gosling and a very cooperative shower head. Whatever gets your brain into a sexy place, go there. No shame, just more pleasure. Once you're mentally in the zone, the next layer is building that erotic charge between you and your partner. Because for many people, orgasm isn't just about mechanics—it's about energy. That simmering, undeniable chemistry. Luterman calls this 'the flow of desire communicated between two people,' and says it can start with something as simple as expressing what you want. Not into your nipple being pinched? Say so—but make it hot. Tell your partner how good it would feel if they touched under your breast instead, or used their tongue instead of their finger. That kind of feedback keeps you present and amps up the tension. Also: If you don't feel sexy, it's hard to believe your partner sees you that way. But Luterman says you don't need to magically be confident—just try trusting that your partner already finds you hot. Right now. In this exact moment. That belief? Orgasmic gold. Paying attention to your body and environment is great, but who says you can't outsource a little help? There are plenty of sexy stimuli out there just waiting to get you turned on and push you closer to orgasm. We're talking erotic books, ethical porn, audio porn, even just a sexy playlist that hits in all the right places. You can use these tools while masturbating, as a warm-up, or mid-action with a partner (as long as everyone's into it). The goal? To keep your brain in a sexy place on purpose. Because sometimes, focusing on a hot storyline or an erotic soundscape is exactly what you need to stay in the moment and get where you want to go. Even if you think you're not kinky, you might just not have found your thing yet. Erotic educator and Organic Loven founder Taylor Sparks suggests experimenting with some entry-level kink to shake things up and tap into a new layer of desire. 'Try tricks like orgasm denial or even incorporating bondage,' she says. You don't have to go full dungeon—just introducing a little edge can unlock sensations (and orgasms) you didn't know you were missing. Curious about latex? Want to try spanking, blindfolds, or dirty talk that borders on power play? Say something. Bringing these desires into the open—even if you're just dipping a toe—can be a total game changer. And who knows? That thing you were too shy to mention might just be the key to your next mind-blowing orgasm. If you're still figuring out what turns you on—or struggling to communicate it—a sex game can make things way less awkward (and a lot more fun). Think of it as an erotic icebreaker: It can get you out of your head, spark genuine connection, and open the door to sharing desires you might otherwise keep to yourself. 'Communication is not only a form of seduction, but a precursor that lays the foundation for more meaningful, fulfilling, and pleasurable sex,' Jess O'Reilly, PhD, resident sexologist at Astroglide, previously told Cosmopolitan. And what better way to communicate than while giggling over a dirty dare or debating who has to go down first? Whether it's a literal sex board game (yes, they exist), a round of spicy truth or dare, or just pulling cards from a kink exploration deck, games can take the pressure off orgasm and shift the focus to curiosity, connection, and foreplay. Bonus: You might discover a new kink in the process. If your orgasm keeps slipping through your fingers, it might be time to press pause—literally. Instead of trying to rush to the finish line, try edging: the practice of building up to climax, stopping just before you get there, and then doing it all over again. It's not about denial—it's about the build. 'Edging during sex or self-pleasure can dramatically increase genital engorgement and blood flow to your nerve endings,' says Wright. That means the next time you finally do let go, it's more intense, more full-body, and less likely to be interrupted by the usual mental chatter. Win-win. You can also turn edging into a no-pressure 'training night' with your partner. Pick an evening with zero other goals—no penetration pressure, no orgasm expectations, just exploration. Focus on what feels good, especially mouth-on-clitoris stuff. Take your time. Get curious. Let them take notes (literally or metaphorically). And if you're still struggling to find the rhythm or pressure that works for you, don't underestimate the power of dry humping. Yes, the name could use a rebrand, but hear us out: grinding with clothes or underwear on provides indirect clitoral stimulation that can be way easier to control—and hotter—than you'd expect. It's not just for teenagers in parked cars. For some people, it's a super effective route to climax. So, if you're feeling stuck, getting back to basics can unlock something major. Fewer tricks, more attention. Less pressure, more pleasure. Spoiler: Your partner can't just magically give you an orgasm. But you can help them help you—by literally lending a hand. Touch your clit during sex or guide your partner with your words (or better yet, both). 'While they're touching your vulva, cover their hand with yours and use the same motion you use when you masturbate,' says sex educator Emily Morse. Prefer a vibrator? Use it in front of them. It's hot, helpful, and super informative. Not everyone responds to the same kind of stimulation, so if you haven't figured out what works yet, don't stress. You might need pressure, tapping, circles, or some combo of all three. (We've got you covered with plenty of solo sex tips if you need inspiration.) The more you show or say what you like, the easier it is to actually get there—together. If you keep hitting that 'so close, yet so far' wall, an arousal gel might be the upgrade your orgasm's been waiting for. These lubes and gels boost sensitivity by increasing blood flow and oxygen to your genitals, which can make everything feel way more intense. 'Arousal gels open your blood vessels, which increases sensitivity and vaginal secretions to intensify orgasms,' Sparks previously told Cosmopolitan. Translation? You get wetter, cum more easily, and climax harder. Think fireworks, not sparklers. Got a go-to move that always works? Love that for you. But even the best orgasms can get… a little predictable. Switch things up by playing with new rhythms and combos—like adding fingers during oral or grinding against your partner in missionary to hit your clit just right. Sometimes it's not one magic move, but a combo platter of stimulation that gets you there (and then some).
The Hill
4 days ago
- The Hill
FDA eyes warning label for antidepressants during pregnancy
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering placing a black-box warning on antidepressant use in pregnancy, alarming some doctors who worry that a reignited debate about the drugs' safety will discourage pregnant people from seeking treatment. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary recently hosted a panel discussion about the use of antidepressants during pregnancy, specifically serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), with participants challenging the scientific consensus. While the drugs may pose some risk during pregnancy, the risks associated with not treating mood disorders like depression, to both pregnant people and developing fetuses, are much higher, according to physicians and medical experts. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) released a statement calling the discussion 'alarmingly unbalanced,' warning that it is dangerous to minimize the effects of mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum. 'Unfortunately, the many outlandish and unfounded claims made by the panelists regarding SSRIs will only serve to incite fear and cause patients to come to false conclusions that could prevent them from getting the treatment they need,' the statement reads. Many panelists suggested pregnant people should be better warned about the harms the drugs pose to a developing fetus and discussed changing current labeling on antidepressants. Makary said in his opening remarks the drugs could influence the development of organs like the brain and heart in utero. He added that SSRIs have been 'implicated in different studies to be involved in postpartum hemorrhage, pulmonary hypertensions and cognitive downstream effects in the baby.' One of the panelists, Anick Bérard, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Montreal, claimed that the use of the SSRIs paroxetine and fluoxetine greatly increased the risk of adverse health events like miscarriage or low birth weight. For example, Bérard stated that SSRI use during pregnancy increased the absolute risk of miscarriage from about 6 percent to 10 percent. 'This needs to be well talked about when treating pregnant women who are depressed, anxious or using antidepressants,' she said. Physicians and physician groups have since criticized the discussion, calling it 'one-sided' given that only one of the 10 panelists spoke positively about SSRIs and how they can be used as an effective tool to treat depression and anxiety during pregnancy. Tiffany Moore Simas, an OB-GYN at UMass Memorial Health, said the unbalanced nature of the discussion will worsen stigma around antidepressant use during pregnancy and that a 'black box' label is not necessary on the drugs. 'Many perinatal individuals choose not to do pharmacotherapy for fear of fetal harm and for the stigma associated with psychiatric medication,' she said. 'That panel added to this fear of harm.' A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the FDA, would not comment on any future policy decisions regarding antidepressants. The spokesperson did say that suggesting the expert panel was 'one-sided' or politically driven is 'insulting' to its participants. 'Commissioner Makary has an interest in ensuring policies reflect the latest gold standard science and protect public health,' the spokesperson said. 'To suggest that his engagement on women's health signals a desire to manipulate outcomes is politically motivated and undermines the serious work being done to improve care for millions of women.' Many people struggle with their mental health during pregnancy, with research showing that up to 20 percent of women experience depression during a pregnancy, and about 20 percent suffer from anxiety. About 8 percent of these women take an SSRI to treat the conditions. Those conditions carry health risks if left untreated, like preeclampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight, and suicide — one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in the United States. Some research suggests that 5 to 14 percent of pregnant or postpartum people experience suicidal ideation and that suicide could account for 20 percent of postpartum deaths. 'There is a real, biologic reason why pregnant and postpartum persons are susceptible to these conditions, and we need to treat them as needed,' said Moore Simas. 'There are consequences to not doing that.' Recommending that a patient start or stay on an SSRI during pregnancy is not a decision that physicians take lightly, doctors told The Hill, and providers typically will try to limit the number of potentially harmful exposures to a fetus. As a result, the first line of treatment for mild depression and sometimes moderate depression is therapy. But moderate and severe depression are important to treat, and there is 'reassuring' evidence that treating those conditions with SSRIs does not expose pregnant people to increased risks of birth defects, according to Nicole Leistikow, a psychiatry professor at the University of Maryland who specializes in treating women. There is a roughly 3 to 5 percent chance of birth defects occurring in any given pregnancy, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and numerous large studies conducted over the last 30 years show that SSRIs do not increase this risk. FDA panelists noted that there have not been randomized trials to assess the safety of SSRIs, which some physician groups, like ACOG, agree should be conducted and prioritized. But physicians who spoke with The Hill noted that the studies panelists referenced were not well designed, with some having inappropriate control groups. They added that well-designed studies on antidepressant use in pregnancy will compare outcomes between appropriate groups, like women with depression taking antidepressants and women with depression not taking antidepressants.
Time Business News
5 days ago
- Time Business News
Zoloft vs Lexapro: Cardiovascular Health Considerations
When choosing an antidepressant, it is essential to consider not only the effectiveness for mood disorders but also potential impacts on cardiovascular health. Two commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), zoloft vs lexapro, are often compared for their efficacy, side effects, and safety profile, including how they may affect the heart and blood vessels. Understanding the cardiovascular considerations of these medications can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions. Finding the right treatment for adults who struggle with both ADHD and anxiety can be challenging. Certain medications designed for ADHD may sometimes worsen anxiety, while others can help manage both conditions simultaneously. Stimulant options like methylphenidate and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine are commonly evaluated by doctors based on individual needs. In the middle of this process, many patients discover that the best ADHD medication for adults with anxiety balances focus improvement without amplifying anxious feelings. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential, as personalized treatment ensures both attention and emotional well-being are addressed safely and effectively. Zoloft and Lexapro are both SSRIs, a class of medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Zoloft is approved for major depressive disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Lexapro is primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. While both medications are effective for mood regulation, their pharmacological differences can influence cardiovascular health in varying ways. SSRIs, in general, are considered to have a relatively safe cardiovascular profile compared to older classes of antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). However, SSRIs can still impact heart health, particularly in patients with preexisting cardiovascular conditions. Common concerns include changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and electrical conduction in the heart, which may lead to arrhythmias or prolonged QT intervals in susceptible individuals. Additionally, SSRIs can influence platelet function, potentially affecting bleeding risk and cardiovascular events in some patients. Zoloft has been studied extensively for its cardiovascular safety. Research suggests that Zoloft is generally well-tolerated in patients with heart disease. It is often considered a first-line SSRI for individuals with cardiovascular risk factors because it has a lower likelihood of causing significant changes in blood pressure or heart rhythm. However, some studies indicate that high doses of Zoloft may cause mild increases in heart rate or occasional palpitations. Patients with a history of arrhythmias or other heart conditions should be monitored closely when taking Zoloft. Lexapro is also considered to have a favorable cardiovascular profile, but it differs slightly from Zoloft in its impact on heart function. Lexapro has been associated with mild changes in QT interval on electrocardiograms, particularly at higher doses or in combination with other medications that prolong the QT interval. This could theoretically increase the risk of arrhythmias, though the absolute risk remains low for most patients. Like Zoloft, Lexapro can influence platelet function and may slightly increase bleeding risk, especially when combined with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Patients with a history of prolonged QT interval or heart rhythm abnormalities should use Lexapro under close medical supervision. When comparing Zoloft and Lexapro in terms of cardiovascular health, both medications are generally considered safe for the majority of patients, but subtle differences exist. Zoloft may be preferred for patients with preexisting arrhythmias or those at risk of heart rhythm disturbances, as it is less likely to prolong the QT interval. Lexapro, while effective and well-tolerated for depression and anxiety, requires caution in individuals with known QT prolongation or those taking other medications that affect cardiac conduction. Both medications require monitoring in patients with significant cardiovascular conditions, and healthcare providers typically perform baseline electrocardiograms and regular follow-ups as needed. In addition to medication choice, patients should focus on lifestyle factors that support heart health while taking SSRIs. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can reduce cardiovascular risk. Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate, particularly in the early stages of treatment, can help detect any potential issues before they become serious. Patients should also report any symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or unusual fatigue to their healthcare provider promptly. Zoloft and Lexapro are effective SSRIs with generally favorable cardiovascular safety profiles, but individual factors play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate medication. Zoloft may offer a slight advantage for patients with heart rhythm concerns, whereas Lexapro requires careful monitoring in individuals with QT prolongation risk. Both medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, with regular monitoring and attention to lifestyle habits that promote cardiovascular health. By understanding the subtle differences in how these medications affect the heart, patients and clinicians can make informed decisions that support both mental and cardiovascular well-being. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
