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Healthy aging and longevity Archive

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Should I take a statin if my calcium score is low?

People who have a low coronary artery calcium score (between 1 and 99) have signs of early heart disease. Current guidelines recommend taking a statin, with a goal of lowering LDL cholesterol by at least 30%.

Cardiac amyloidosis: Better detection and new treatments

Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare heart condition that causes the walls of the heart to become thick, stiff, and unable to pump normally. Three FDA-approved medications for the most common form, ATTR-CM, slow disease progression and extend life.

When should a high TSH lead to a higher thyroid hormone dose?

A rise in thyroid-stimulating hormone after thyroid removal can have several explanations, from medication timing to changes in absorption.

Video: Moving through the stages of sleep

Sleep comes in two different forms: REM (dreaming) and non‑REM (quiet) sleep. In quiet sleep, your brain shifts from chaotic awake activity into calm, rhythmic waves as if a switch has been flipped. In a healthy night, you glide through three deepening stages of non‑REM (N1, N2, N3 slow‑wave sleep) before diving into vivid REM dreams.

Can MRSA return after treatment?

A MRSA infection may be treatable, yet the bacteria can sometimes remain on the body and return. Find out what recovery and prevention involve.

When should you take your blood pressure medicine for the best effect?

Timing your blood pressure pills can impact control and side effects. Discover how morning vs. bedtime dosing may affect your readings.

Eating more soy and other legumes might ward off high blood pressure

A 2026 research review and analysis suggested that consuming more soy products and other legumes was associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.

Many older adults get health information from self-defined experts online

A 2026 national survey suggested that half of all American adults under 50—and 35% of older adults—get health information from social media influencers or podcasters, the minority of whom are health care professionals. People should be skeptical of any advice from these sources.

Increasing daily steps may boost surgical recovery

After most types of surgery, early and increased walking appears to support a smoother recovery. A 2026 study found that increased daily steps above pre-surgery levels were linked with shorter hospital stays, lower complication rates, and fewer readmissions.

Gout medication to stop flare-ups

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by too much uric acid, which leaves the bloodstream and settles in joints. Uric acid crystals can form in joints, causing redness, swelling and pain—a gout flare. Drugs taken over a long term can lower uric acid levels and prevent flares.

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