Cardiologist Groups Say Newer Blood Thinners Best Against A-Fib

MONDAY, Jan. 28, 2019 -- Newer blood thinners are recommended over warfarin for people with the heart condition called atrial fibrillation (a-fib) in updated treatment guidelines issued by three major American heart groups.

The newer drugs are called non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Examples include dabigatran (Pradaxa), rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and apixaban (Eliquis). They don't require the same frequent monitoring of blood-clotting levels as the older clot-preventing drug warfarin (Coumadin) does. They also don't have the same drug and food interactions that warfarin does.

AHA: 7 Things That Can Affect the Heart -- And What to Do About Them

FRIDAY, Feb. 1, 2019 (American Heart Association) -- Debby Schrecengast's blood pressure was "through the roof." She had gained a lot of weight. A history of heart disease ran deep in her immediate family.

When she looks back at herself in 2014, the year she suffered a stroke, she sees a "stubborn old donkey" in denial about her health.

Why Your Heart Needs a Good Night's Sleep

MONDAY, Jan. 14, 2019 -- Six hours: That's the minimum amount of sleep per night you need to help your heart stay healthy, new research suggests.

The study found that chronic lack of sleep and poor sleep quality raise the odds of fatty plaque accumulation in arteries -- a condition known as atherosclerosis, which increases the odds of heart attack and stroke.