Latest news with #Drs
Epoch Times
15-05-2025
- Health
- Epoch Times
Gum Disease Bacteria Carry Heart Risks, May Trigger Atrial Fibrillation
That nagging bleeding when you brush your teeth may not be just a dental problem—it could be endangering your heart. A new study suggests that the bacterium responsible for gingivitis may slip from infected gums into the bloodstream and infiltrate heart tissue, to increase the risk of irregular heart beats. Irregular heart beats are linked to increased risks of strokes and heart failure. How Gum Disease Attacks Your Heart The findings, recently published in the journal Researchers examined heart tissue from 68 human patients with AFib who had undergone heart surgery and found many of these patients had P. gingivalis in the left atrium of their heart, particularly in the hearts of those with severe gum disease. They also infected mice with P. gingivalis and subsequently found the bacteria inside their hearts as well. These mice were also six times more likely to develop abnormal heart rhythms, such as AFib, compared to mice that were not infected. Researchers pointed out that this study is the first showing clear evidence that P. gingivalis can enter the heart by bacteria leaving the mouth to enter the bloodstream. Related Stories 4/12/2024 2/3/2024 'The causal relationship between periodontitis and atrial fibrillation is still unknown, but the spread of periodontal bacteria through the bloodstream may connect these conditions,' study first author Shunsuke Miyauchi said in a P. gingivalis enters the blood stream via 'periodontal lesions and further translocates to the left atrium [of the heart],' Miyauchi added, noting that the more severe the periodontitis, the more bacteria were found in the heart. Once in the atrium, P. gingivalis can cause scar tissue formation in the heart, which increases the Afib risk, Miyauchi said. Therefore, he noted, periodontal treatment, which can block 'the gateway of P. gingivalis translocation,' may play an important role in AFib prevention and treatment. When the immune system fights gum infections, it releases chemicals that can leak into the blood and cause inflammation all over the body, harming organs including the heart. Harmful bacteria like P. gingivalis have been found in heart tissue, valves, and fatty plaques in arteries. Any bleeding in the gums is an indication of gingivitis, Dr. Jessica Pharar, a dentist and owner of Drs. Chin and Pharar Dentistry in Las Vegas, told The Epoch Times. 'If you see bright red angry looking gums, that is a good indication you are progressing more severe gingivitis,' she added. 'Patients who have other health issues, especially inflammatory diseases, are more prone to gingivitis,' Pharar said. 'Cleaning your mouth twice a day is imperative. Regular check ups at the dentist are essential to protect your overall dental health.' The Wider Impact of Gum Disease The researchers pointed out doctors have noticed for years that people with gum disease frequently have more heart problems and noted that a recent meta-analysis linked gum disease to a 30 percent higher chance of developing AFib. Globally, cases of AFib have 'The prevalence of gum disease continues to be an important public health problem in the United States as 2 in 5 adults are affected by some form of this disease,' Dr. Sandip Sachar, a dentist in New York City, told The Epoch Times. Untreated gum disease can impact overall health beyond just the heart. Pharar cautioned that wherever gingivitis bacteria settles, it can cause problems. Research has consistently linked chronic gum infections to a variety of systemic health Diabetes 'Gum disease and diabetes seem to have a bidirectional relationship,' Sachar said. 'Poor blood sugar control worsens gum disease, and untreated gum disease can increase blood sugar, complicating the overall management of diabetes.' Alzheimer's and Dementia Studies have shown a link between moderate or severe gum disease and an Other Conditions Some studies have linked gum disease to an increased risk of developing certain types of 'Gum disease has also been linked to rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory problems, liver disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes,' Sachar said. 'Untreated gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. Inflammatory responses in the mouth can potentially affect fetal development.' 'Patients who get a joint replacement can infect their new joint if they don't have good dental health,' Pharar said. However, the condition can be prevented, treated, and even reversed by 'getting professional dental cleanings by a dentist at least twice a year, and maintaining gum health with brushing twice a day, and flossing daily,' Sachar added.
NZ Herald
04-05-2025
- Climate
- NZ Herald
Albanese's Aussie Win, NZ Storm Anxiety & Gaza Aid
Christopher Luxon speaks to media Mark Mitchell provides an update on the state of emergency in Christchurch and Selwyn A possible mini tornado was spotted about Auckland Harbour as the latest band of wild weather hits the city. Fire and Emergency NZ said it responded to more than 30 callouts overnight, mainly in the Wellington area. The worst of the weather is over, more Kiwis turning to methamphetamine and Drs are back at the negotiating table. NZSA chief executive Oliver Mander speaks about CEO pay in 2024. Video / Dean Purcell Waiwhetu woman Julie Paterson heard 'a loud cracking', looked up, and saw a tree branch falling towards her during Wednesday's storm. Video / Julie Paterson Heather Keats updates the powerful system battering New Zealand, bringing floods, snow, extreme wind and widespread disruption. Video / NZ Herald, MetService, Vanessa Weenink MetService Head of Weather News, Heather Keats, breaks down why Wellington is under a rare red warning with extreme winds, heavy rain and dangerous high tides. Hon Mark Mitchell, Deputy Mayor Malcolm Lyall, and Local MP Hon Nicola Grigg speak to the media on the local state of emergency in Selwyn Gisborne locals and health workers marched to Heipipi Park, where speakers highlighted what they say is a regional health crisis. NZ Herald Live: Simeon Brown talks to media A tourist in the Philippines climbed into a crocodile cage to pose for a selfie, only to be attacked by the beast. Senior doctors and nurses protest outside Auckland Hospital during a nationwide strike over pay and staffing shortages. Video Jason Dorday A person has sustained critical injuries after a high-speed crash on Tiverton Rd, Avondale at 2.14am. Video / NZ Herald
NZ Herald
01-05-2025
- Health
- NZ Herald
More Kiwis turning to methamphetamine and the worst of the weather is over
The worst of the weather is over, more Kiwis turning to methamphetamine and Drs are back at the negotiating table.
