Does sleep apnea increase your heart attack risk?
This is another question I was asked recently. Here’s the answer:
Sleep apnea increases your risk for high blood pressure, which then increases your risk of heart disease, which then increases your heart attack risk. A vicious chain of events!
The quickest and easiest way to know if sleep apnea is causing your blood pressure to rise is to check your blood pressure when you wake up in the morning and compare it to a blood pressure reading later in the day. Discuss what you learn with your MD.
All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD, LN
Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure
P.S. Don’t forget to get your FREE report “Stop Wasting Money – Take Control of Your Health” when you subscribe to The Heart of Health ezine!
Do I need to be concerned about high HDL levels?
My LDL is 50, my HDL is 160 and my triglycerides 90. Do I need to be concerned about my high HDL levels?
The above question is one I recently answered for a visitor to The Health Central Network. I thought readers of this blog may be interested in the answer as well, so here it is.
HDL is the good cholesterol and does not contribute to arterial plaque that leads to heart disease. HDL actually does the opposite and reduces the plaque lining your artery walls. A high level is a good thing and reduces your heart disease risk. If taking medications, speak with your MD to double check whether your medication is playing a role.
Now, we are learning that there are two different types of HDL molecules and of course one is “good” and the other “bad”. The only way to know which type of HDL you have and your levels is get get an expanded lipid profile. Consult with your MD to learn your options.
All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD, LN
How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally
