Latest news with #HeartHealth
Khaleej Times
29-05-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Hypertension alert: Know your blood pressure, take care of your heart
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects over 1.28 billion people globally and is a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. Often symptomless, it's known as the 'silent killer,' silently damaging vital organs over time. In the UAE, lifestyle factors like poor diet, stress, and physical inactivity are fuelling its rise, with nearly one in three adults affected. As we mark 20 years of World Hypertension Day, this year's theme — 'Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer' — reminds us that early detection, accurate monitoring, and lifestyle changes are key to long-term heart health. 'Your plate can either protect your heart or pressure it,' says Vibha Bajpaiee, Clinical Dietician at Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai (AJMC). 'A diet low in salt, saturated fats, and processed foods, but rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and potassium-rich foods, helps regulate blood pressure naturally. Avoid sugary drinks and excess caffeine. Opt for home-cooked meals with herbs instead of salt for flavour. Keep an eye on food labels — hidden sodium is common. Hydration, portion control, and mindful snacking also play key roles. Combine smart eating with regular movement, and you create a strong defence against hypertension. Remember, what you eat today can shape your heart health tomorrow.' Know your numbers: Why regular BP checks should be your daily habit Dr Heba Tag Eldin, Specialist Cardiology at Aster Clinic, Halwan (Sharjah), says: 'High blood pressure rarely shows symptoms, which is why regular monitoring is crucial.' 'Measuring your blood pressure accurately at home or in a clinic helps detect abnormalities early, often before complications develop. Aim to check at the same time each day, in a relaxed state, and use a validated device. Record your readings to spot trends. Knowing your numbers empowers you to take proactive steps — whether through lifestyle changes or medication. Don't wait for symptoms; prevention begins with awareness. Early action based on accurate readings can help you avoid long-term damage to your heart, brain, and kidneys.' From salt to stress: Blueprint for a heart-healthy lifestyle 'Managing high blood pressure begins with sustainable lifestyle changes,' says Dr Ashik Sasidharan, Specialist Cardiology at Aster Clinic, Al Qusais (Damascus St.). 'Reduce salt intake to less than 5g a day, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly — aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Limit alcohol, quit smoking, and manage stress through mindfulness, breathing exercises, or hobbies you enjoy. Sleep is equally important; poor rest can increase blood pressure. Monitor your intake of caffeine and processed foods, which can trigger spikes. Lifestyle choices may seem small, but collectively, they can significantly lower blood pressure, improve heart function, and reduce your need for long-term medication.' The kidney connection: How high blood pressure wreaks silent havoc 'Hypertension is a major contributor to chronic kidney disease, often causing silent, progressive damage over time,' says Dr Azeem Ahamed, Specialist Nephrology at Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai (AJMC), and Aster Cedars Hospital & Clinic, Jebel Ali. 'When blood pressure remains elevated, it puts extra strain on the delicate vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste effectively. Over time, this can lead to kidney failure. Regular kidney function tests and urine checks can help detect early damage. Managing your blood pressure through diet, lifestyle, and medication is essential to protect kidney health. Hydrate well, limit salt and processed foods, and avoid overuse of painkillers, which can worsen kidney function. Healthy blood pressure supports healthy kidneys — for life.' Pressure builds silently: Early signs you should never ignore Dr Sachin Upadhyaya, Specialist Cardiology at Aster Hospital, Mankhool, says: 'Though hypertension is often symptomless, some people may experience subtle signs like frequent headaches, nosebleeds, blurred vision, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath.' He further explains 'These should not be dismissed. If you're at risk due to family history, obesity, stress, or poor lifestyle habits, regular screening becomes even more essential. Left unmanaged, high blood pressure can silently damage arteries and vital organs. According to the latest 2024 ESC guidelines, even patients with BP above 120/70 mmHg should undergo risk evaluation and begin treatment if found high-risk. If you notice these early indicators, seek medical evaluation immediately. It's better to investigate mild symptoms than wait for a crisis. Timely detection and early intervention can prevent irreversible heart, brain, or kidney complications.' Prepping the heart: Why controlled BP is crucial before surgery Dr Anil P Kumar, Specialist Interventional Cardiology at Aster Hospital, Qusais, says: 'For patients undergoing cardiac or any major surgery, optimal blood pressure control is non-negotiable.' 'Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of bleeding, stroke, heart attack, and complications during anaesthesia. Before surgery, a thorough assessment — including blood pressure monitoring—is performed to stabilise the patient. Medications may need adjusting, and lifestyle changes may be recommended in the lead-up to the procedure. Preoperative control of blood pressure improves surgical outcomes, reduces ICU stays, and speeds up recovery. If you're scheduled for surgery, work closely with your healthcare provider to bring your blood pressure within target range well before your operation.' Inside the OR: How surgeons handle hypertension-compromised hearts 'Operating on a heart burdened by years of high blood pressure poses unique challenges,' says Dr Debabrata Dash, Consultant Interventional Cardiology at Aster Hospital, Mankhool. 'Chronic hypertension leads to thickened heart walls, stiff arteries, and a higher risk of bleeding during surgery. Surgeons must anticipate complications like arrhythmias or reduced heart function. Intraoperative blood pressure must be managed meticulously to avoid sudden drops or spikes. Every second in the operating room is calculated, and surgical plans are customised for hypertensive patients. Timely surgical intervention, supported by a multidisciplinary team, helps stabilise cardiac function and prevent catastrophic outcomes. Managing hypertension before and after surgery is vital to long-term recovery.' Post-op and beyond: Managing hypertension after cardiac surgery Dr Srinivasan Kandasamy, Specialist Cardiology at Aster Hospital, Qusais, says: 'Recovery from cardiac surgery doesn't end in the hospital — it extends into daily life.' 'Managing blood pressure post-surgery is essential to protect your surgical outcomes and prevent recurrence. Follow your medication schedule strictly, attend follow-up appointments, and maintain a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet. Gradually return to physical activity under medical guidance. Track your blood pressure regularly and watch for signs like swelling, fatigue, or dizziness. Mental well-being matters too — address anxiety or depression, which can affect your BP. With consistent effort, many patients achieve better blood pressure control post-surgery than before. Long-term success lies in disciplined, proactive care.' At Aster Hospitals and Clinics, we are committed to raising awareness, enabling early detection, and delivering expert care for hypertension. By prioritising accurate monitoring and heart-healthy living, we aim to empower our community to take control of their blood pressure — and their future. Your heart health starts with Aster.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
MarinHealth Launches Comprehensive Cardiothoracic Surgery Program as Part of Its Heart and Vascular Institute
Bringing World-Class Expertise and Exceptional Outcomes to the North Bay and Beyond GREENBRAE, Calif., May 21, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MarinHealth is proud to announce the launch of its new Cardiothoracic Surgery Program, as part of the MarinHealth Heart and Vascular Institute, to provide advanced surgical care for complex heart and thoracic conditions. Based at MarinHealth Medical Center, this program brings together a multidisciplinary team of nationally recognized experts, delivering state-of-the-art cardiac care throughout California. Led by a team of highly skilled cardiothoracic surgeons, the new program is designed to serve patients with serious and often life-threatening heart and chest conditions. The team performs a full spectrum of procedures, including aortic and mitral valve repair or replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting, minimally invasive surgery, and re-operative cardiac surgeries for patients who have previously undergone heart surgery. "Our goal is to provide world-class surgical care with the best possible outcomes," said Luis Castro, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery at MarinHealth. "With our expertise in complex procedures and high patient volumes, we're proud to build a program that rivals top academic centers." The Cardiothoracic Surgery team works collaboratively with specialists in cardiovascular medicine, critical care, anesthesiology, radiology, and others to create highly personalized treatment plans. This integrated approach ensures patients receive coordinated, comprehensive care at every stage — from diagnosis through recovery. MarinHealth's team embraces the latest advancements in surgical technology, including minimally invasive procedures, helping to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes. The program is also distinguished by its expertise in complex re-operations, providing hope to patients with high-risk conditions, even after a second or third surgery. "Our multidisciplinary care model ensures every patient benefits from the collective expertise of an experienced team," said David Klein, MD, Chief Executive Officer of MarinHealth Medical Center. "This program builds on MarinHealth's long-standing commitment to delivering the highest standard of cardiac care to our community." The team sees patients at the MarinHealth Cardiothoracic Surgery | A UCSF Health clinic in Larkspur. For more details, visit or call 415-945-6280 to schedule an appointment. About MarinHealth MarinHealth is an integrated healthcare enterprise with deep roots in the North Bay. With a world-class physician and clinical team, an ever-expanding network of clinics, a new state-of-the-art hospital, and an amazing team, the MarinHealth team stops at nothing to help patients achieve their best health. MarinHealth is comprised of MarinHealth Medical Center, a 327-bed hospital located in the heart of Marin since 1952, the MarinHealth Medical Network with 60+ primary care and specialty clinics located in Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties, and the MarinHealth Foundation. A long-time partnership with UCSF Health expands MarinHealth's world-class capabilities and its portfolio of services to serve more of our North Bay community in new and better ways. For more information, visit View source version on Contacts Jennifer Churchill, media@ 415-521-0612
RNZ News
09-05-2025
- Health
- RNZ News
Blood pressure: how is yours?
When was the last time you got your blood pressure checked? High blood pressure affects a million New Zealanders nationwide and more than a third of those affected don't even know they have it. So, the Heart Foundation is launching a nationwide campaign to encourage us to get our blood pressure checked. Jesse talks to the foundation's Medical Director Dr Gerry Devlin. To embed this content on your own webpage, cut and paste the following: See terms of use.
