Aspirin and niacin for heart health
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 29 2009
Q: If you have had heart attacks in the family what is the dose of aspirin you should take? Also, if I were to take vitamins what would be the best to help with the heart, blood pressure, and cholesterol?
A: The risk of taking aspirin needs to be weighed against the benefits. You need to discuss this with your doctor. Niacin, otherwise known as B3 has been shown to improve blood fat levels. However, many people are unable to take this vitamin because of side effects. Taking niacin in prescription form often makes it more tolerable. Ask your doctor for a recommendation.
Tags: aspirin, b3, blood pressure, cholesterol, heart attack, heart attacks, Heart Health, Heart Health, niacin, side effects, Supplements, vitamin B, vitaminsBenefits and risks of low dose aspirin
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 08 2009
Q: Quite lately, I heard a doctor on Fox news extra indicate that the continued use of low dose aspirin to mitigate cardiovascular risks, has been researched and found to be pose some complications. He advised that the use be discontinued. I had to stop the use of low dose Aspirin. What do you think?
A: Low dose aspirin can cause serious bleeding. The risk of a serious bleed needs to be weighed against your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Not everyone has a high enough risk of a heart attack or stroke to make it worth the risk of serious bleeding from aspirin. In addition, recent studies have shown that some people don’t get any benefit from taking aspirin. You should make the decision about taking or not taking aspirin with the help of your doctor.
Tags: aspirin, cardiovascular, heart attack, Heart Health, Heart Health, low dose aspirin, Misc, strokeLifestyle changes to lower BP
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Feb 16 2009
Q: I am almost 50 and have been taking Lotrel 10/40 for 2 years. I work in Iraq and just since Dec 08, I have started eating like my friends do here in Iraq: hummus, eggplant, olive oil, tabouli, fresh veggies and fruits, and soups with every meal. Nothing out of a box or container. I have also started walking and have lost over 37 lbs. My BP is now lower than it has ever been before (115/75). Is it possible for me to one day get off this medication if I continue to eat and walk and work out daily?
A: Congratulations, you are doing a great job of making life style changes that are heart healthy. It may be possible to get off your blood pressure medication but you need to consult with your doctor to accomplish this safely.
Tags: blood pressure, blood pressure medication, Diet & Exercise, Heart Health, life style changes, lifestyle changes, lotrelAspirin for lowering blood pressure
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 09 2008
Q: I have read a lot of research about Aspirin. Is it still advisable to use it as a means of lowering high blood pressure?
A: It is well known that daily low dose aspirin can help prevent cardiovascular events. Daily aspirin therapy also increases the risk of serious bleeding so it is not recommended for everyone. The risks versus the benefits need to be assessed on an individual basis. Whether on not any individual should take daily aspirin is a decision that needs to be made in conjunction with their healthcare provider.
Tags: aspirin, cardiovascular, Heart Health, high blood pressure, hypertensionWhat is the effect of potassium on blood pressure?
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Mar 29 2007
Q: Years ago, my doctor advised against potassium supplements because of the risk of a heart attack. Now, I am reading that potassium is important to heart health. Which is right?
A: Both are correct. Potassium is essential for the proper function of all cells in the body. It helps regulate the activity of muscles, including the heart. Too much or too little potassium can cause heart beat problems that may lead to death. Some medications used to treat high blood pressure result in lower than normal blood levels of potassium so supplements or eating foods rich in potassium, such as bananas or dried apricots, are recommended. People with kidney problems, usually need to avoid these foods and supplements because poor functioning kidneys can cause elevated blood levels of potassium.
Tags: heart attack, heart beat, Heart Health, high blood pressure, Medication Interactions, medications, muscles, pressure result, risk
