New Heart Failure Risks: Fractures and Memory Problems
New Heart Failure Risks: Fractures and Memory Problems
Feb. 2, 2012 -- Two new studies shine a light on some lesser known consequences of heart failure: fractures and memory problems.
About 5 million people in the U.S. have heart failure, according to the American Heart Association. A chronic and progressive condition, heart failure occurs when the heart muscle can no longer pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Symptoms may include swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs, tiredness, and shortness of breath. It is usually treated with medications aimed at relieving symptoms and helping the heart do its job.
One new study shows that people with heart failure are also at a 30% increased risk for major fractures. As a result, they may benefit from screening and treatment to make sure their bones stay strong. This study appears in Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
The second report shows that people with heart failure may have memory problems and a loss of grey matter in their brain. These changes may make it more difficult for people with heart failure to take their medications as directed. The findings appear in the European Heart Journal.
A Visual Guide to Heart Disease
About 5 million people in the U.S. have heart failure, according to the American Heart Association. A chronic and progressive condition, heart failure occurs when the heart muscle can no longer pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Symptoms may include swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs, tiredness, and shortness of breath. It is usually treated with medications aimed at relieving symptoms and helping the heart do its job.
One new study shows that people with heart failure are also at a 30% increased risk for major fractures. As a result, they may benefit from screening and treatment to make sure their bones stay strong. This study appears in Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
The second report shows that people with heart failure may have memory problems and a loss of grey matter in their brain. These changes may make it more difficult for people with heart failure to take their medications as directed. The findings appear in the European Heart Journal.
A Visual Guide to Heart Disease