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It’s the leading cause of death in the United States.

By SELF Staffers

October 11, 2023

When to Worry About Heart Palpitations, According to Cardiologists

Every time your heart skips a beat is very rarely the answer.

By Zahra Thompson and Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Mathew Devine, DO

Here’s Why Heart Attack Symptoms Can Be So Hard to Spot in Women

It’s a complicated picture.

By Carolyn L. Todd

Grocery Diaries: A Mom Who Balances Taste, Convenience, and Heart Health Concerns

“We’re short on time.”

By Melissa Matthews

Doctors Told Me I Had Asthma. Then I Had Four Strokes

US Women’s CP National Soccer Team player Cassidy Leake shares her harrowing journey.

By Julia Sullivan

6 Signs of Heart Problems Even Young People Should Know

They could be harmless, but they could also be red flags.

By Julia SullivanMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

I Had a Heart Attack at 34. Here’s the First Symptom I Experienced

The paramedics told my husband I was having a panic attack.

By Julia Ries

Why You Might Have a Higher Risk of Heart Disease as a Black Person—And What to Do About It

The reasons are complicated but also familiar.

By Ade OnibadaMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

3 Things You Can Do to Reduce Your Heart Disease Risk If It Runs in Your Family

Experts say history doesn’t have to repeat itself.

By Tina DonvitoMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

4 Types of Cholesterol That Affect Your Heart Health (and What To Do About Them)

Knowing your lipoprotein situation can give you some insight into what’s happening inside your body.

By Amy NortonMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

3 Signs Your Doctor Isn’t Taking Your Heart Health Seriously

Watch out for these red flags at your next appointment.

By Jess SimsMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

3 Questions Every Black Person Should Ask Their Doctor About Their Heart Health

Given the disparities in who receives effective care, it’s worth drilling down on the specifics.

By Tonya RussellMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

What Genetic Testing Can Tell You About Your Heart Health

These screenings aren’t crystal balls, but they can flag some potential issues.

By Julia RiesMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

3 Things to Do If Heart Problems Are Messing With Your Sleep

Just switching up how you lie in bed could help a ton.

By Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

How to Talk to Your Family About Their Heart Health History

Even if you’re not super close to your relatives, you’ve got options.

By Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

Here’s Why Black People Are More Likely to Experience Heart Failure

The health care system has a lot of biases that are baked right in.

By Sara Gaynes LevyMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

Digestive Health

Lisa Marie Presley Died of Small Bowel Obstruction—Here’s What That Means

The blockage was related to a bariatric surgery she had years ago.

By Korin Miller

5 Causes of Heart Failure All Young People Should Know

Certain factors—like genetics and substance use—affect your risk, no matter your age.

By Beth KrietschMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

Health

15 Reasons to Finally Give Running a Try

It’s about way more than fast times and finish lines.

By Cindy Kuzma

Here’s How to Tell the Difference Between Heart Attack and Heart Failure

The symptoms aren’t always as similar as you might think.

By Colleen StinchcombeMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD

Leslie Jordan Died of ‘Sudden Cardiac Dysfunction’—Here’s What That Means

The beloved comedian was involved in a car crash in October.

By Korin Miller

How Does Cardiac Arrest Happen to a Young Athlete Like Damar Hamlin?

The 24-year-old is in critical condition after collapsing during Monday night’s game.

By Korin Miller

When Does Shortness of Breath Signal a Potential Heart Problem?

It isn’t a symptom you should ignore, especially if it comes on suddenly.

By Beth KrietschMedically reviewed by Katie Berlacher, MD