Heart Health: 5 Tips to Protect Your Heart

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a single-chain 84 amino acid peptide produced by the parathyroid gland in response to a decrease in the extracellular concentration of ionized calcium. Its main role is to increase the level of calcium in the serum. It does this by stimulating the release of calcium from the bones and renal reabsorption in the distal tubules. In the proximal tubules, PTH stimulates the synthesis of calcitriol, which in turn increases the absorption of calcium in the intestines and creates an endocrine feedback loop on PTH secretion at the level of the parathyroid gland. Parathyroid hormone also reduces phosphate reabsorption in the proximal tubules of the kidneys, thereby reducing the amount of phosphate in the serum.Disorders of the parathyroid gland lead to an increase or decrease in blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia or hypocalcemia), which is caused by a change in parathyroid gland secretion.Excessive production of parathyroid hormone is called hyperparathyroidism.Types include:• Primary hyperparathyroidism: Often caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) on one of the parathyroid glands. Other causes include enlarged glands (hyperplasia) or, rarely, parathyroid gland cancer.• Secondary hyperparathyroidism: Occurs as a response to low blood calcium levels due to chronic renal failure, vitamin D deficiency, or extremely high levels of phosphate. The parathyroid glands produce excess PTH, attempting to restore calcium balance.• Tertiary hyperparathyroidism: Develops when secondary hyperparathyroidism continues for a long time, leading to autonomous hyperactivity of the glands, even when calcium levels return to normal.Underproduction of parathyroid hormone is called hypoparathyroidism.The causes of hypoparathyroidism are:• Damage, accidental removal, or destruction of the parathyroid glands during neck or thyroid surgery• Autoimmune diseases• Low magnesium levels• Radiation therapy to the head or neck• Rarely, congenital absence of glands or functional defectsSymptoms of hyperparathyroidism are:• Fatigue and general weakness (the most common symptom)• Bone and joint pain, osteoporosis, brittle bones, and fractures• Muscle weakness• Kidney stones and possible kidney disease or renal failure• Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, depression, anxiety, and mood swings• Increased thirst and frequent urination• Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, and abdominal pain• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping• Headaches• Heart-related symptoms such as high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and atrial fibrillationSymptoms of hypoparathyroidism are:• A tingling or burning sensation in the fingers, toes, lips, and around the mouth (paresthesia)• Muscle aches, spasms, and cramps, sometimes affecting the hands, feet, face, and throat• Fatigue, weakness, exhaustion• Headaches and problems with memory or concentration• Abdominal pain• Dry skin, brittle nails, dry hair, brittle teeth• Cataracts• Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings• In severe cases, convulsionsSometimes the symptoms are mild or absent, and parathyroid gland problems are detected through routine blood tests.

Obesity is not just excess weight, but is considered a chronic disease that over time leads to serious complications. According to the WHO, obesity is a global epidemic that affects both physical and psychological health. Main causes of obesity • Poor diet – abuse of fats, sweets, and high-calorie foods. • Lack of physical activity – a sedentary lifestyle reduces energy expenditure. • Hormonal disorders – for example, hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome. • Genetic predisposition – some genes affect metabolism and appetite. • Psychological factors – stress, depression, loneliness, which often lead to excessive food consumption. The hidden dangers of obesity Excess weight can become the basis for numerous health problems. The consequences of obesity include a high risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, stroke), atherosclerosis, and joint diseases (arthrosis, gonarthrosis). It can also cause respiratory disorders (sleep apnea, asthma) and hormonal disorders. In addition, obesity is associated with a high risk of oncological diseases (breast, uterine, colon, and other cancers), as well as skin problems (dermatitis, fungal infections). Prevention The prevention of obesity is based on a healthy lifestyle: • A healthy and balanced diet, limiting fats and simple carbohydrates. • Regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. • Periodic monitoring of weight and body mass index. • Hormonal and metabolic tests for those at risk. Treatment Obesity treatment is individualized and includes a comprehensive approach: • Diet therapy – calorie control, diet adjustment. • Physical activity – workouts and motor activity. • Treatment of accompanying diseases – diabetes, hypertension, hormonal disorders. • Bariatric surgery – indicated when the BMI is over 40 and diet and physical activity have not given a satisfactory result. Obesity is not just an aesthetic problem, but a serious medical condition. By consulting an endocrinologist in time and undergoing hormonal and metabolic tests, it is possible to prevent severe complications and maintain a healthy life.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered one of the most common hormonal disorders among women, affecting both the reproductive system and metabolism. In this condition, numerous small, immature follicles form in the ovaries, which can disrupt the natural process of ovulation. Why is it important to recognize polycystic ovary syndrome? PCOS can go on for years without obvious symptoms, but it can lead to the following complications: • Infertility or complications during pregnancy • Irregular menstrual cycle • Skin and hair problems: acne, hirsutism • Insulin resistance and a high risk of type 2 diabetes • Psychological complications: depression, stress, low self-esteem How is a diagnosis confirmed? PCOS diagnosis is made by combining a number of data points: • Detailed medical interview • Menstrual cycle analysis • Ultrasound examination (sonography) • Blood hormonal and metabolic tests How is treatment carried out? PCOS is treated with a combined approach, depending on the woman's age, goals (e.g., getting pregnant or regulating the cycle), and the severity of the symptoms. The main directions of treatment are: 1. Regulation of diet and lifestyle 2. Cycle regulation: hormonal treatment 3. Treatment of hirsutism and skin acne 4. Assisted conception: medication or, if necessary, the use of reproductive technologies 5. Medications that increase insulin sensitivity Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and a Healthy Lifestyle Even a mild weight loss (5-10%) can significantly improve hormonal balance, restore ovulation, and regulate menstruation. • Balanced nutrition • Regular physical activity • Good quality of sleep • Stress management methods Remember, you are not alone. There are many women with PCOS, and with proper management, it is possible to live a full, feminine life with a healthy reproductive system. Pay attention to your body's signals, and do not hesitate to consult a specialist.

Aspirin (active ingredient: acetylsalicylic acid) is a medicine used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. However, it also plays a very important role in the prevention of heart diseases (Cardiomagnyl, Aspirin cardio). Why is Aspirin important for heart patients? Aspirin has blood-thinning properties. Many heart diseases start because the blood becomes thick and can form clots (thrombi), which hinder the natural flow of blood. These clots can block the vessels of the heart or brain, causing myocardial infarction or stroke. Aspirin reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by preventing the formation of clots in people who are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Who should use Aspirin (as directed by a doctor)? • Those who have already had a myocardial infarction or a cerebral stroke. • Those who have ischemic heart disease (narrowing of the heart vessels). • Those who have undergone stenting of the coronary arteries (vessels that supply the heart). • High-risk individuals: those with diabetes, who are overweight, or who are smokers. It is important to know that Aspirin should be taken only as directed by a doctor, as it can have side effects. For example, in people with high blood pressure, it can increase the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (hemorrhagic stroke). Possible side effects Aspirin can also cause the following problems: • Stomach pain • Bleeding (e.g., from gums or intestines) • Allergic reaction Inform your doctor if: • You are taking other medications. • You have bleeding or stomach ulcers, gastritis. • You are preparing for surgery. How and when is the medication taken? For primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases, aspirin is used in a low dose of 75–150 mg per day (as directed by a doctor). It is taken every day (Cardiomagnyl: after eating, Aspirin cardio: before eating). Do not stop taking aspirin without consulting a doctor, even if you feel well. Reminder to the patient Aspirin does not cure; it prevents the development of dangerous conditions. It should be taken every day, at the right time. Keep it away from children. Talk to your doctor if you are also taking other medicines. While using aspirin, it is necessary to regularly monitor blood pressure to avoid complications, especially the risk of bleeding or stroke. Remember, the medication can help, but real heart protection starts with a healthy lifestyle.