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If you have felt your heart flutter, race, pause or “skip a beat”, you may have wondered whether you have an arrhythmia. The word can sound alarming, but it covers a wide range of heart rhythms (heartbeats). Some are harmless and need only reassurance; others deserve investigation or treatment. In simple terms, an arrhythmia is […]

Heart disease is not one single illness. It is an umbrella term for conditions that affect the heart’s blood supply, muscle, valves, rhythm or structure. Some develop slowly and remain silent for years. Others appear suddenly, as a heart attack or a dangerous heart rhythm. That sounds alarming, but there is an important positive message: […]

Key message  For most adults, the strongest heart-health plan is not one “perfect” workout. It is a repeatable mix of aerobic activity, muscle strengthening, mobility work, recovery and less sitting. Why a mixed exercise routine is good for your heart If you had to choose only one type of exercise for cardiovascular health, aerobic activity […]

Stand on a court and your heart soon knows that this is exercise A tennis rally or a fast exchange at the padel net does not look like a steady jog. You accelerate, brake, change direction, recover, concentrate and then go again. That stop-start pattern raises the heart rate, challenges the circulation and recruits muscles […]

Introduction For many people, a sauna is simply a place to unwind. Yet the rise in heart rate, widening of blood vessels and increase in skin blood flow that occur in a hot room have led researchers to ask a more interesting question: could regular sauna bathing support cardiovascular health? The short answer is that […]

Chest pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical advice. Traditionally, doctors have associated angina with narrowing or blockage of the large coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. However, many patients experience typical angina symptoms despite having coronary angiograms (either traditional invasive procedure or CT Coronary Angiograms) that show […]

Introduction Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, causing an excessive increase in heart rate when moving from a lying or sitting position to standing. Although awareness of POTS has increased significantly in recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients still experience […]

The Keto Diet and Heart Health: Dangerous or Effective? The ketogenic (“keto”) diet is famous for fast weight loss and better blood sugar control, and infamous for being a high-fat way of eating that can send LDL cholesterol soaring in some people. So is it dangerous or effective for your heart? The most honest evidence-based […]

In the days, weeks or months after delivery, some new mothers may encounter health challenges they didn’t anticipate — especially related to the heart and blood vessels. While pregnancy is often discussed in terms of labour, delivery, and neonatal outcomes, maternal cardiovascular risk including issues that can persist or emerge postpartum is less often discussed […]

Human space exploration pushes the boundaries of science, technology, and medicine. For decades, researchers have sought to understand how living beyond Earth’s gravity affects the human body — particularly the cardiovascular system. Heart health in astronauts is a cornerstone of space medicine research, because the heart and blood vessels evolved under Earth’s gravity and face […]

Our understanding of the human heart and cardiovascular system has evolved over thousands of years. Today’s evidence-based cardiology is grounded in advanced imaging, clinical trials, molecular biology, and large population studies. Yet, the roots of this knowledge extend deep into antiquity — especially in ancient medicine cardiovascular traditions found in Egypt and India. These early […]

How Music Affects Heart Rate: Mozart vs Metal Listening to music can change heart rate and the balance of the autonomic nervous system. Slow, low-tempo, consonant music (classical pieces such as some Mozart movements, “relaxing music”) is consistently associated with reductions in heart rate and increases in indices of parasympathetic activity (higher heart rate variability). […]

Does Living at High Altitude Help or Hurt Your Heart? Short answer up front: living at moderate high altitude (roughly 1,500–2,500 m) appears to be associated with some cardiovascular benefits (lower ischemic heart disease and overall cardiovascular mortality in several populations), while very high or extreme altitude and certain individual conditions introduce clear risks (pulmonary […]

We intuitively feel better after a walk in the park, our mood lifts and breathing eases. But beyond this pleasant feeling, can contact with nature actually reduce the risk of heart disease? In this blog post we will describe the evidence and explain how and how much green environments might affect heart health. Along the […]

Are Desk Jobs dangerous for Your Heart? Sedentary Work & Risk Sitting for long stretches — the kind of everyday behaviour many of us call a desk job — is linked to measurable increases in cardiovascular risk. Below we describe the evidence, explain how sitting affects heart physiology and quantify risk for people with desk […]

Microplastics heart disease, Microplastics and blood vessels In recent years, micro- and nanoplastics have emerged as a growing focus of scientific and public health attention. In addition to this, in the last couple of years, multiple human studies have found plastic particles inside arterial plaque, within the walls of major blood vessels, and even in […]

VR workout benefits, virtual reality fitness, exercise and heart health The short answer is `yes`, if used wisely, virtual reality fitness can help you hit evidence-based activity targets, improve aerobic capacity, reduce blood pressure in some groups, and make workouts more enjoyable so you actually stick with them. But it’s not magic, and the details […]

High blood pressure is one of the clearest dietary drivers of cardiovascular disease. For decades, public-health messages have emphasised the same simple advice: eat less salt. But “less salt” is easier said than done — sodium is everywhere, baked into processed foods and hidden in restaurant meals. Over the last decade an alternative strategy has […]

Introduction In the high‑volatility world of finance, being exposed to stress is a frequent occurrence. But can emotional turbulence from financial markets really affect the heart? Emerging research confirms that financial stress—including losses in investments—may contribute to serious cardiovascular outcomes, up to heart attacks. This article explores whether being stressed might be harming your heart […]

Ever heard of white coat hypertension (also called white coat syndrome)? It’s when your blood pressure shoots up only at the doctor’s office because you’re nervous — but it’s normal the rest of the time. This is very different from real (sustained) hypertension, where blood pressure is always high, no matter where or when it’s […]

Introduction High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition that affects over 1.3 billion people worldwide (World Health Organization, 2023). Uncontrolled hypertension significantly raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and premature death. With rising rates globally, many people seek natural or complementary remedies to help manage blood pressure alongside medical treatment. One […]

Introduction: The rising interest in deep breathing Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects over 1.28 billion adults worldwide (World Health Organization, 2023), with projections suggesting this number may rise to 1.5 billion by 2025. As a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, it contributes substantially to the global burden of disease. […]

Introduction Hypertension remains an important global public health challenge.  More than 14 million adults in the UK have high blood pressure—and an estimated five million of them remain undiagnosed, largely because the condition rarely causes noticeable symptoms. Despite the availability of effective hypertension medication treatment, Recent studies indicate that just 37% of individuals with high […]

Introduction: The Transformative Power of Running In today’s sedentary society, many individuals find themselves tethered to their couches, leading lifestyles that can be detrimental to heart health. However, the journey from a sedentary existence to completing a 5K run is not just a physical transformation but a profound reboot of cardiovascular health. Running, a simple […]

Introduction In our increasingly connected world, exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) has become ubiquitous. From mobile phones and Wi-Fi routers to power lines and household appliances, EMFs are an integral part of modern life. While these technologies offer numerous conveniences, concerns have emerged regarding their potential impact on human health, particularly heart health. One area […]

Introduction Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, affects more than 1.28 billion adults globally (World Health Organization, 2023). It is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, leading to significant health burdens worldwide. While lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise play a crucial role in blood pressure regulation, a […]

Introduction Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, has traditionally been associated with older adults. However, recent trends indicate a disturbing rise in hypertension among young adults, particularly millennials aged 29 to 44 (people born between 1981 and 1996). This shift is attributed to various lifestyle factors, including increased consumption of processed foods and beverages […]

Hormones are pivotal in regulating numerous physiological processes, including those that govern cardiovascular health. Fluctuations or imbalances in hormone levels can significantly influence the risk of developing heart-related conditions. This article describes in details the complex relationships between specific hormonal changes and cardiovascular health, focusing on menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), testosterone, and estrogen.​ Testosterone […]

White coat hypertension, often referred to as white coat syndrome, and real hypertension are two conditions that involve elevated blood pressure readings but differ significantly in their causes, diagnosis, and implications. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate hypertension diagnosis and effective management.​ In this article we will define both but also answer several very […]

Introduction The connection between gut health and heart disease has become a growing area of interest in medical research. The human gut microbiome, consisting of trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including digestion, immunity, and even cardiovascular health. Recent studies suggest that an imbalance in gut bacteria may contribute to […]

Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with both genetic and environmental factors playing pivotal roles in its development. Understanding the genetic components and predispositions of cardiovascular diseases have become increasingly important in recent years, offering insights into individual risk profiles and potential preventive strategies. This article describes in details the role of […]

Introduction Heart disease remains the leading cause of death globally, claiming millions of lives each year. Despite advancements in medical science, a plethora of myths, misconceptions, and deceitful products continue to cloud public understanding of heart health. These inaccuracies can mislead individual patients to make unhealthy choices. This article aims to debunk common heart health […]

Introduction The integration of technology into healthcare has a potential to revolutionise the management and prevention of heart diseases. Wearable devices, mobile applications, and artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming to play an important role in monitoring heart health, offering real-time data and individualised insights. This article describes in details the advancements in heart rate monitor […]

Introduction Cardiovascular disease (CVD) encompasses a broad spectrum of heart and blood vessel disorders, including coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmias. It remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the UK alone, CVD is responsible for 26% of all deaths and accounts for 2 of the top 5 causes […]

Home Blog   As we age, maintaining optimal heart health becomes a cornerstone of overall well-being. The elderly population faces unique challenges due to age-related cardiovascular changes, which can increase the risk of heart problems. This article explores practical and scientifically supported tips for maintaining heart health for seniors, helping them to lead active and […]

Home Blog   Introduction Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, sparking interest in preventative measures and lifestyle modifications that support cardiovascular health. Among the potential solutions, Omega-3 fatty acids have gained prominence for their reputed benefits in reducing heart disease risks. Commonly sourced from fish oil and certain plant oils, Omega-3 fatty […]

Home Blog Introduction Cardiovascular disease is the leading global cause of mortality, accounting for nearly 18million deaths annually. The good news is that many cases of heart disease are preventablethrough dietary and lifestyle changes. A diet for heart health, when combined with exerciseand stress management, forms a powerful strategy to protect your heart health. By […]

Home Blog Introduction Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality globally, accounting for millions of deaths annually. While advances in medical treatments have improved outcomes, lifestyle modifications—particularly regular exercise—are fundamental in preventing and managing heart disease.  The question many people ask is: How much exercise is enough to protect the heart? Is there a […]

Home Blog   Introduction In recent years, plant-based diets have had significant attention for their health benefits, especially regarding potential cardiovascular health. These diets, primarily focusing on consuming whole foods from plants while minimizing or eliminating animal-based products, are increasingly recommended by healthcare professionals for their role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Research consistently […]

Home Blog   Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention Heart disease remains a leading cause of death for women globally, yet awareness about its impact on women’s health is often overshadowed by other health concerns. Despite the rise in health awareness campaigns, there are still significant misconceptions about how heart disease manifests in women, how the risks […]

Home Blog   Experiencing chest pain can be a distressing event, especially when it becomes difficult to distinguish whether the pain is due to heartburn (indigestion) or a more severe heart condition such as a heart attack, myocardial infarction. Both heartburn and heart attacks present with some overlapping symptomatic components, but they require entirely different […]

Home Blog   Heart disease, encompassing a variety of conditions affecting the heart’s structure and function, is one of the leading causes of death and comorbidity worldwide. For many people with heart disease, breathing difficulties represent a common and sometimes a first symptom, leading to initial diagnosis or decompensation. These issues may range from mild […]

Home Blog   Introduction Shortness of breath, medically termed dyspnea or dyspnoea, is a common and often distressing symptom experienced by patients with heart disease. This condition arises from the interplay between the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, both of which are crucial in maintaining the body’s oxygen supply. For patients with diagnosis of heart conditions, […]

Home Blog   Introduction Our heart`s function is to tirelessly pump blood around our body to sustain life. Despite its resilience, heart can send us warning signs when it’s under duress or not functioning optimally. Recognising these symptoms is crucial, as early detection can often mean the difference between a manageable condition and a life-threatening […]

Home Blog   Heart failure is a medical condition, which occurs when the heart is not able to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Heart failure is a common heart disease worldwide, affecting millions of individuals and contributing to substantial health problems. Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling […]

Home Blog   Heart attacks, in medical jargon called myocardial infarctions, are a leading cause of death worldwide. Early recognition of symptoms and immediate medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals experiencing a heart attack. Dr Bart Olechowski apart from being a general cardiologist is also a consultant interventional cardiologist, which means that he […]

Home Blog   Managing Heart Disease: Treatments and Therapies Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Thanks to constantly developing medical science, the management of heart disease has evolved, encompassing a broad range of treatments and therapies aimed at improving patient long term and short term outcomes. In daily […]

Home Blog   Introduction Heart health is a vital aspect of overall well-being. Prevention of heart disease is at a cornerstone of maintaining cardiovascular health and general fitness. Unfortunately, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. This today`s blog aims to provide comprehensive insights into heart health, some of which are […]

Home Blog   Introduction: Healthcare professionals, including myself, often are asks about the safe amount of coffee that can be consumed by patients visiting our cardiology clinics. Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide and in recent times, there have been several interesting studies looking into relationship between coffee consumption and heart […]

Home Blog   Introduction The modern workplace and life are a significant source of stress for many individuals, driven by various factors such as long hours, tight deadlines, job insecurity, and high demands of daily duties. We often get questions from our patients about the impact of stress at work and life on heart health. […]

Diagnosing cardiac conditions in women Women face unique challenges in the diagnosis, recognition, and treatment of cardiac conditions. There are several gender-specific issues that contribute to this.  Firstly, there is a significant underrepresentation of women in clinical trials and research studies focused on heart problems. In the past, the majority of cardiovascular trials have predominantly […]