Latest news with #Hypertension
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
How weather affects your blood pressure (and what you can do about it)
We often think of blood pressure as something affected by what we eat, how stressed we are, or whether we remembered to take our medication. But there's another factor quietly influencing those numbers: the weather. Temperature changes, both hot and cold, can alter how your heart and blood vessels behave. And for anyone living with hypertension, those shifts might have a greater effect than expected. As the weather becomes more and more erratic, it is necessary that we understand how fluctuations in weather are affecting our health. When it's hot, blood pressure may drop, but not without risks During summer, to cool itself, the body widens the blood vessels close to the surface of your skin, a process known as vasodilation. This allows heat to escape more easily. But behind the scenes, your heart has to work harder, beating faster and pushing more blood to the surface. This drop in vascular resistance can cause your blood pressure to fall. T Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo by Taboola by Taboola hat might sound like a good thing if you're hypertensive, and to some extent, it is. But the situation isn't quite that simple. High temperatures are accompanied by excessive sweating and fluid loss. If fluid loss is not compensated adequately, blood volume drops again. The body then responds by releasing vasopressin, a hormone that helps conserve water but also causes blood vessels to tighten again. The result is a rapid rise in blood pressure that can reverse the earlier drop and put strain on the heart. This kind of fluctuation can be especially dangerous if you're on medication that already promotes vasodilation. Even mild dehydration can hurt oxygen delivery to your organs and trigger complications. Cold temperatures raise pressure through vasoconstriction In colder weather, it is the opposite. The vessels constrict to keep heat from escaping. This narrowing is known as vasoconstriction. It increases resistance within the arteries, forcing the heart to work harder and ultimately causing your blood pressure to rise. A study published in the journal Hypertension followed more than 16,000 patients and found that over a third showed heightened sensitivity to cold temperatures. These individuals not only had higher systolic blood pressure during winter but were also more likely to experience cardiovascular complications. What's more, winter often leads to less physical activity, weight gain, and increased intake of salt-heavy foods. Reduced sunlight can also lower vitamin D levels, which has been linked to poorer blood pressure control. Altogether, it becomes a season where everything seems to work against stable heart health. How to keep your blood pressure steady despite weather shifts If you're living with high blood pressure, the best thing to do is stay ahead of the curve. Start by tracking your blood pressure regularly, especially as the seasons change. This might help you get in sync with the changes in your body better. In the heat, stay hydrated. Usually, it is advised to drink six to eight glasses of water a day. However, if it is a strenuous day physically more might be needed. Diuretic drinks like alcohol and excess caffeine should be kept in check, as they can worsen fluid loss. During winter, prioritize warmth and consistency. Dress in layers, stay physically active even if it means indoor stretches or light exercise, and maintain a comfortably heated environment. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, and low in sodium, will support cardiovascular health throughout the year.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Recor Medical Supports Proposed CMS National Coverage Determination of Renal Denervation for the Treatment of Hypertension
About the Paradise Ultrasound Renal Denervation System Recor Medical Supports Proposed CMS National Coverage Determination of Renal Denervation for the Treatment of Hypertension Palo Alto, CA, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Recor Medical, Inc. ('Recor') and its parent company, Otsuka Medical Devices Co., Ltd. ('Otsuka Medical Devices'), today announced their support for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' (CMS) proposed National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Renal Denervation (RDN), a device-based therapy for patients with uncontrolled hypertension—individuals whose blood pressure cannot be properly managed with lifestyle changes and medication. The proposed NCD, released on July 10, 2025, recommends coverage for ultrasound renal denervation (uRDN) and radiofrequency renal denervation (rfRDN) for uncontrolled hypertension. A 30-day public comment period is now open for healthcare professionals, professional societies, and industry to provide input before CMS issues its final determination in October. 'We are encouraged by CMS's proposed decision to provide Medicare coverage for uRDN in patients with uncontrolled hypertension—a population that continues to face significant unmet need,' said Lara Barghout, CEO of Recor Medical. 'This preliminary determination is a meaningful step forward in recognizing the clinical value of RDN and will aid in expanding access to the patients who need it.' Recor has been focused on developing and testing the Paradise uRDN system for the treatment of hypertension since 2009. The RADIANCE global program studied the Paradise system in three independently powered, sham-controlled, randomized clinical trials in over 500 patients with uncontrolled hypertension: RADIANCE II and RADIANCE-HTN SOLO, which studied patients with mild-moderate hypertension in an 'off-meds' setting, and RADIANCE-HTN TRIO, which studied patients with resistant hypertension on standardized triple antihypertensive therapy. Each trial met its prescribed primary efficacy endpoint with a favorable safety profile consistently observed following ultrasound RDN treatment. Recor has also initiated the US Global Paradise System (GPS) Post-Approval Study, which intends to collect real-world clinical evidence with long-term follow-up in 1,000 patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The Paradise uRDN system is currently commercially available for patients in the US having received FDA approval in November 2023. It is indicated to reduce blood pressure as an adjunctive treatment in hypertension patients in whom lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive medications do not adequately control blood pressure. About the Paradise uRDN SystemThe Paradise uRDN system is a first-of-its-kind ultrasound-based RDN technology designed to lower blood pressure by denervating the sympathetic nerves surrounding the renal arteries, reducing the overactivity that can lead to hypertension. The Paradise uRDN system delivers two to three doses of 360-degree ultrasound energy — lasting seven seconds each — through the main renal arteries to the surrounding nerves. The Paradise catheter features the exclusive HydroCooling™ system, which circulates sterile water through the balloon catheter during the procedure to help protect the renal artery wall. About Recor Medical, Medical, headquartered in Palo Alto, Calif., a wholly owned subsidiary of Otsuka Medical Devices Co., Ltd., is a medical technology company focused on transforming the management of hypertension. Recor has pioneered the use of the Paradise Ultrasound Renal Denervation system for the treatment of hypertension. The Paradise uRDN system is an investigational device in Japan, is FDA approved for sale in the United States, and is CE marked and approved for sale in markets where the CE mark is accepted, per approved indications for use. Recor has reported positive outcomes in three independent, randomized, sham-controlled studies of the Paradise uRDN system in patients with mild-to-moderate and resistant hypertension. In addition, Recor is conducting the Global Paradise System ('GPS') Registry in the European Union and the UK, and has initiated the US GPS post-approval study in the United Otsuka Medical Devices Co., Medical Devices Co., Ltd. engages in the global development and commercialization of medical devices that provide new therapeutic options in areas where patient needs cannot be met through pharmaceutical or other conventional treatment. Otsuka Medical Devices is a subsidiary of Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd. ( a global healthcare company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (JP 4578). ContactLisa OwensThe Mullings Grouplowens@ Attachments About the Paradise Ultrasound Renal Denervation System Recor Medical Supports Proposed CMS National Coverage Determination of Renal Denervation for the Treatment of Hypertension CONTACT: Lara Barghout Recor Medical +1 650 542 7700 in to access your portfolio
Daily Mirror
18-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Cardiologist issues food advice to lower blood pressure in hours
A heart doctor says eating the right food is key and you can notice a difference in a matter of hours Munching on leafy greens might not seem as appealing as a biscuit, but such a tiny tweak to your eating habits could make a world of difference. And according to those in the know, tucking into a bit of spinach could be a game-changer. The often overlooked veg has the potential to lower your systolic blood pressure, and a doctor noted that improvements can be spotted within "hours" - and with "daily intake" it could work wonders. Speaking to Parade, Doctor Deepak Talreja, cardiologist and clinical chief of cardiology at Sentara Health, said: "Spinach may help lower systolic blood pressure, largely due to its rich content of dietary nitrates. "When we eat nitrate-rich foods like spinach, the body converts nitrates to nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels." With your blood vessels in a more relaxed and widened state, blood can flow more effortlessly, decreasing the vascular resistance, which is essentially the resistance to blood flow in the veins and arteries. "This can lead to a modest reduction in systolic blood pressure," he said. He proceeded to cite several studies backing the effects of spinach on systolic blood pressure and highlighted one study in particular. He said: "A randomised crossover trial published in Hypertension found that a diet high in nitrate-rich vegetables such as spinach significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients, particularly when consumed regularly. "The effect may be seen within hours of consumption and can persist with daily intake. Regularly incorporating fresh spinach into meals - whether in salads, smoothies or sautés - can be a simple, natural way to support healthier blood pressure and overall cardiovascular wellbeing." Dr Talreja added: "While spinach alone won't replace medications or other proven treatments, it can be part of a broader dietary strategy aligned with the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets - both of which are associated with lower cardiovascular risk." Rich in potassium, spinach also helps regulate sodium and blood pressure levels. Additionally, it is an excellent source of magnesium. As an antioxidant-rich food, spinach is high in vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, which can help mitigate the risk of damage and clogged blood vessels, as well as high cholesterol. The Hypertension study adds that beetroot juice is also a great example of a "single dose of dietary inorganic nitrate" that can reduce your blood pressure. They said that in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 68 people with hypertension were randomly assigned to drink either 250 mL of nitrate-rich beetroot juice or nitrate-free (placebo) juice every day for 4 weeks. Participants were either not on medication or already being treated for high blood pressure, and ranged in age from 18 to 85. Results showed that those who drank the nitrate-rich juice had significant reductions in blood pressure measured at the clinic, at home, and over 24 hours. These effects lasted throughout the 4 weeks with no signs of the body adapting (which they call "tachyphylaxis"). Additionally, blood vessel function improved by about 20%, and artery stiffness decreased. There were no changes in the placebo group. The researchers concluded: "This is the first evidence of durable BP reduction with dietary nitrate supplementation in a relevant patient group. These findings suggest a role for dietary nitrate as an affordable, readily-available, adjunctive treatment in the management of patients with hypertension (funded by The British Heart Foundation)."
Zawya
11-06-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and African First Ladies mark World Hypertension Day 2025 by launching their Annual Awards for Best Media, Fashion, Song, and Film to raise awareness on hypertension, diabetes and importance of healthy lifestyle
Merck Foundation ( the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks 'World Hypertension Day 2025' in partnership with Africa's First Ladies, Ministries of Health, Medical Societies and Academia through their 'Nationwide Diabetes&Hypertension Blue Points Program, by reinforcing its commitment to improving cardiovascular and diabetes care across Africa, and beyond. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation stated, 'At Merck Foundation we observe 'World Hypertension Day' by expanding access to quality and equitable care in Hypertension, Diabetes, Endocrinnology and Cardiovascular preventive care, which are all co-related, by providing scholarships for young doctors from across Africa and beyond. 'Together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, and partners like Ministries of Health, Medical Societies and Academia, we have till today provided more than 860 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries, of One-Year Online PG Diplomas and Two-Year Online Master's Degrees in Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Endocrinology, Cardiology, and Obesity&Weight Management, as well as One-Year Clinical Cardiovascular Care and Clinical Diabetes Onsite Fellowship Programs in India, a special 3-month Diabetes Mastercourse in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish languages. What is special about these scholarships is that they have been provided not only to doctors from capital cities, but also to those from across the country — ensuring wider geographic coverage of healthcare capacity. We remain committed to continuing our efforts to improve healthcare capacity and access to hypertension and diabetes care.' Merck Foundation has in total provided more than 2270 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. Dr. Dzifa Ahadzi, Merck Foundation alumnus from Ghana shares, 'I have completed my Postgraduate Diploma in Cardiology and currently pursuing MSc in Cardiology. Being a practicing cardiologist, this program has provided me with the opportunity to consolidate my knowledge and apply current advances in cardiovascular care to my clinical practice. Since completing the PG Diploma in Cardiology, I have been involved in establishing a Heart Failure clinic in my hospital that caters to the needs of a diverse population of Heart Failure patients including women with Postpartum cardiomyopathy and Cardio-oncology patients. I am extremely grateful to Merck Foundation for the support and exposure it has provided me. It has inspired me and helped me to improve cardiovascular care amongst the population that I serve.' Merck Foundation scholarships are of great value, given that as per WHO data, the African region has the highest prevalence of hypertension, with approximately 27% of adults affected. Therefore, Merck Foundation has launched several community awareness programs to emphasize on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about diabetes and hypertension prevention, early detection and management. Merck Foundation, together with The First Ladies of Africa has launched a storybook and its adapted animation Film 'Mark's Pressure'. 'I believe early education is key to building a healthier community. Through our storybook and animation film ' Mark's Pressure ', we aim to instill healthy habits in children and youth — like reducing salt and sugar, eating well, exercising, and avoiding smoking. I believe that this is the only way to to prevent and manage hypertension and diabetes, which are major risk factors for many serious complications and illnesses.' Watch the 'Mark's Pressure' Animation Film here: Moreover, Merck Foundation's pan African TV program 'Our Africa' conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation has episodes dedicated to raising awareness about Diabetes and Promoting Healthy Lifestyle. Watch the Episodes here: 'Our Africa' TV Program has been broadcasted on National and Prime TV stations of many African countries like Burundi, Botswana, Ghana, The Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zambia and is currently on social media handles of Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej [Facebook ( Instagram ( Twitter ( and YouTube ( ] and Merck Foundation [Facebook ( Instagram ( Twitter ( and YouTube ( ]. Additionally, Merck Foundation together with African First Ladies, also launches annually, their Awards for best Media, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, Musicians/ Singers, and new potential talents in these fields from African countries to Promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. 1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension': Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. 2. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension': All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. 3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension': All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. 4. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension': All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: submit@ Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation. Contact: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669 Email: Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard: Facebook: X: YouTube: Instagram: Threads: Flickr: Website: Download Merck Foundation App: About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare&scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( YouTube ( Threads ( and Flickr ( The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support
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.
