Health and Me

Itisha Arya

Could Your Mouth Be a Hidden Risk for Parkinson’s? New Research Says Yes

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive movement disorder that affects the nervous system, the network of nerves controlling movement and other vital body functions. Symptoms usually appear gradually. Often, the first sign is a subtle tremor in one hand, or sometimes a foot or jaw. Tremors are common, but Parkinson’s can also cause stiffness, slower movements, and balance problems, increasing the risk of falls.

<h2>Could Oral Bacteria Be a Trigger For Parkinson’s Disease?</h2>Recent research suggests that bacteria in your mouth could play a surprising role in Parkinson’s disease. Scientists have identified a link between <span>Streptococcus mutans</span>, the bacteria primarily responsible for cavities—and the development of Parkinson’s. According to researchers from Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea, these bacteria can settle in the gut and produce metabolites that travel to the brain, potentially triggering Parkinson’s.

“Our study shows how oral microbes in the gut may affect the brain and contribute to Parkinson’s,” says Professor Ara Koh. “Targeting the gut microbiome could offer new treatment possibilities.” The findings, published in Nature Communications, revealed a higher presence of S. mutans in the gut of Parkinson’s patients compared to healthy individuals.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/what-makes-the-dengue-season-2025-different-unique-symptoms-of-dengue-in-2025-and-how-long-it-lasts-article-152878848" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">What Makes The Dengue Season 2025 Different? Unique Symptoms Of Dengue In 2025 And How Long It Lasts</a>

More importantly, S. mutans produces an enzyme called urocanate reductase (UrdA) and a metabolite known as imidazole propionate (ImP). Researchers found that both UrdA and ImP were present at higher levels in the gut and blood of Parkinson’s patients. ImP, in particular, appears capable of entering the bloodstream, reaching the brain, and potentially contributing to the loss of dopaminergic neurons, which is the nerve cells essential for controlling movement.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/huntingtons-disease-gets-first-successful-treatment-heres-what-to-know-about-the-condition-and-early-symptoms-article-152887292" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Huntington’s Disease Gets First Successful Treatment: Here’s What To Know About The Condition And Early Symptoms</a>

In experiments with mice, researchers introduced S. mutans into the gut or modified E. coli to produce UrdA. The mice then showed higher levels of ImP in both their blood and brain. Alongside this, they developed key signs of Parkinson’s disease, including the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, increased brain inflammation, trouble with movement, and greater buildup of alpha-synuclein, a protein closely linked to the disease’s progression.

<h2>What Is Streptococcus Mutans?</h2>S. mutans naturally lives in your mouth and can accumulate on teeth at any age, from infants to adults. It’s the main cause of tooth decay. When you consume sugar, these bacteria produce acids that damage tooth enamel.

<h2>Can We Reduce Streptococcus Mutans?</h2>Even though these bacteria are naturally present, you can take steps to keep them in check:

<ul><li>Brush your teeth at least twice a day</li><li>Clean between your teeth using floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers</li><li>Maintain regular dental checkups</li><li>Limit sugary foods and drinks, replacing them with healthier options</li><li>Consider sealants on grooves and pits if recommended by your dentist</li></ul>Targeting S. mutans and the oral-gut connection could not only improve dental health but also potentially reduce Parkinson’s risk.

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Parkinson’s disease is a progressive movement disorder that affects the nervous system, the network of nerves controlling movement and other vital body functions. Symptoms usually appear gradually. Often, the first sign is a subtle tremor in one hand, or sometimes a foot or jaw. Tremors are common, but Parkinson’s can also cause stiffness, slower movements, and balance problems, increasing the risk of falls.Could Oral Bacteria Be a Trigger For Parkinson’s Disease?Recent research suggests that bacteria in your mouth could play a surprising role in Parkinson’s disease. Scientists have identified a link between Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria primarily responsible for cavities—and the development of Parkinson’s. According to researchers from Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea, these bacteria can settle in the gut and produce metabolites that travel to the brain, potentially triggering Parkinson’s.“Our study shows how oral microbes in the gut may affect the brain and contribute to Parkinson’s,” says Professor Ara Koh. “Targeting the gut microbiome could offer new treatment possibilities.” The findings, published in Nature Communications, revealed a higher presence of S. mutans in the gut of Parkinson’s patients compared to healthy individuals.ALSO READ: What Makes The Dengue Season 2025 Different? Unique Symptoms Of Dengue In 2025 And How Long It LastsMore importantly, S. mutans produces an enzyme called urocanate reductase (UrdA) and a metabolite known as imidazole propionate (ImP). Researchers found that both UrdA and ImP were present at higher levels in the gut and blood of Parkinson’s patients. ImP, in particular, appears capable of entering the bloodstream, reaching the brain, and potentially contributing to the loss of dopaminergic neurons, which is the nerve cells essential for controlling movement.ALSO READ: Huntington’s Disease Gets First Successful Treatment: Here’s What To Know About The Condition And Early SymptomsIn experiments with mice, researchers introduced S. mutans into the gut or modified E. coli to produce UrdA. The mice then showed higher levels of ImP in both their blood and brain. Alongside this, they developed key signs of Parkinson’s disease, including the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, increased brain inflammation, trouble with movement, and greater buildup of alpha-synuclein, a protein closely linked to the disease’s progression.What Is Streptococcus Mutans?S. mutans naturally lives in your mouth and can accumulate on teeth at any age, from infants to adults. It’s the main cause of tooth decay. When you consume sugar, these bacteria produce acids that damage tooth enamel.Can We Reduce Streptococcus Mutans?Even though these bacteria are naturally present, you can take steps to keep them in check:Brush your teeth at least twice a dayClean between your teeth using floss, interdental brushes, or water flossersMaintain regular dental checkupsLimit sugary foods and drinks, replacing them with healthier optionsConsider sealants on grooves and pits if recommended by your dentistTargeting S. mutans and the oral-gut connection could not only improve dental health but also potentially reduce Parkinson’s risk.

could your mouth be a hidden risk for parkinson’s? new research says yes

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (<span>PCOS</span>) is a common condition marked by the development of small cysts on the ovaries. This can interfere with ovulation, disrupt menstrual cycles, and impact fertility. Interestingly, many individuals with PCOS also experience insulin resistance, a condition where the body produces insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar but cannot use it effectively.

This raises concerns about a potential connection between PCOS and <span>diabetes</span>. We got in touch with Dr Tripti Sharan, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, explaining how PCOS may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

<h2>How PCOS Can Increase Diabetes Risk</h2>Dr. Tripti explains that in PCOS, the ovaries do not function normally. Follicles are often stuck at different stages of development, giving the ovaries their characteristic “polycystic” appearance. However, the ovaries are not the underlying cause; they are affected by conditions like insulin resistance or hypothyroidism.

“Insulin resistance is often driven by genetics, obesity, and lifestyle factors,” Dr Tripti notes. “To maintain normal blood sugar, the body produces more insulin. Excess insulin then affects the ovaries, causing them to release higher levels of male hormones. This can lead to irregular periods, acne, abnormal hair growth, and sometimes infertility.”

If these factors are left unaddressed, insulin resistance can worsen. Over time, the body struggles to regulate blood sugar effectively, potentially leading to diabetes.

Risk Factors for Diabetes in Women with PCOSPCOS is often seen as a pre-diabetic condition. Without proper management, it can progress to diabetes. Dr Tripti highlights the importance of lifestyle measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and adopting a structured daily routine.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/pcos-awareness-month-5-lifestyle-tips-to-manage-pcos-according-to-gynecologist-article-152889729" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">PCOS Awareness Month: 5 Lifestyle Tips To Manage PCOS According To Gynecologist</a>

PCOS is also linked to other health concerns, including high triglycerides, fatty liver, endometrial hyperplasia, and high blood pressure. Factors such as obesity, inactivity, chronic stress, high cholesterol, pregnancy, aging, smoking, vitamin D deficiency, and misuse of steroids can further increase diabetes risk in women with PCOS.

<h2>Symptoms Indicating Higher Diabetes Risk</h2>Signs that may indicate a higher risk of developing diabetes in PCOS include poor weight control, fatty liver, elevated lipid levels, and hormonal imbalances like excess androgens. These factors point to worsening insulin resistance, which significantly raises the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.

<h2>Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Tips</h2>Dr. Tripti recommends several strategies to reduce the risk of diabetes in women with PCOS:

<ul><li>Maintain a healthy weight</li><li>Engage in daily physical activity, regardless of body size</li><li>Manage stress effectively</li><li>Prioritize sufficient sleep</li><li>Address hormonal imbalances under medical supervision</li><li>Treat thyroid disorders</li><li>Monitor and control lipid levels to prevent cardiovascular issues</li><li>Ensure pregnancies are planned and screened for diabetes</li></ul>Recognize that aging increases insulin resistance, making a healthy lifestyle even more important

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/lori-harvey-opens-up-about-endometriosis-journey-shares-what-brings-her-relief-article-152842590" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Lori Harvey Opens Up About Endometriosis Journey, Shares What Brings Her Relief</a>

She also advises focusing on a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, especially those with skins, which have a lower glycemic load. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake are important, and regular exercise, including cardio, strength training, stretching, and relaxation practices like yoga and meditation can help manage both PCOS and diabetes risk. Additionally, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol supports overall health.

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition marked by the development of small cysts on the ovaries. This can interfere with ovulation, disrupt menstrual cycles, and impact fertility. Interestingly, many individuals with PCOS also experience insulin resistance, a condition where the body produces insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar but cannot use it effectively.This raises concerns about a potential connection between PCOS and diabetes. We got in touch with Dr Tripti Sharan, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, explaining how PCOS may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.How PCOS Can Increase Diabetes RiskDr. Tripti explains that in PCOS, the ovaries do not function normally. Follicles are often stuck at different stages of development, giving the ovaries their characteristic “polycystic” appearance. However, the ovaries are not the underlying cause; they are affected by conditions like insulin resistance or hypothyroidism.“Insulin resistance is often driven by genetics, obesity, and lifestyle factors,” Dr Tripti notes. “To maintain normal blood sugar, the body produces more insulin. Excess insulin then affects the ovaries, causing them to release higher levels of male hormones. This can lead to irregular periods, acne, abnormal hair growth, and sometimes infertility.”If these factors are left unaddressed, insulin resistance can worsen. Over time, the body struggles to regulate blood sugar effectively, potentially leading to diabetes.Risk Factors for Diabetes in Women with PCOSPCOS is often seen as a pre-diabetic condition. Without proper management, it can progress to diabetes. Dr Tripti highlights the importance of lifestyle measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and adopting a structured daily routine.ALSO READ: PCOS Awareness Month: 5 Lifestyle Tips To Manage PCOS According To GynecologistPCOS is also linked to other health concerns, including high triglycerides, fatty liver, endometrial hyperplasia, and high blood pressure. Factors such as obesity, inactivity, chronic stress, high cholesterol, pregnancy, aging, smoking, vitamin D deficiency, and misuse of steroids can further increase diabetes risk in women with PCOS.Symptoms Indicating Higher Diabetes RiskSigns that may indicate a higher risk of developing diabetes in PCOS include poor weight control, fatty liver, elevated lipid levels, and hormonal imbalances like excess androgens. These factors point to worsening insulin resistance, which significantly raises the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.Preventive Measures and Lifestyle TipsDr. Tripti recommends several strategies to reduce the risk of diabetes in women with PCOS:Maintain a healthy weightEngage in daily physical activity, regardless of body sizeManage stress effectivelyPrioritize sufficient sleepAddress hormonal imbalances under medical supervisionTreat thyroid disordersMonitor and control lipid levels to prevent cardiovascular issuesEnsure pregnancies are planned and screened for diabetesRecognize that aging increases insulin resistance, making a healthy lifestyle even more importantALSO READ: Lori Harvey Opens Up About Endometriosis Journey, Shares What Brings Her ReliefShe also advises focusing on a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, especially those with skins, which have a lower glycemic load. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake are important, and regular exercise, including cardio, strength training, stretching, and relaxation practices like yoga and meditation can help manage both PCOS and diabetes risk. Additionally, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol supports overall health.

pcos could be raising your risk of diabetes, here’s the hidden link

Wellness Report: 1 In 10 Employees Sleep-Deprived, Young Workforce Faces Rising Health Risks

Young Workforce Faces Rising Health Risks

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In today’s hyper-connected, always-on work culture, long hours and erratic shifts are quietly eating into one of the most essential pillars of health.. A new study by Truworth Wellness, India Workplace Wellbeing Report 2025: From Access to Outcomes, reveals how <span>sleep deprivation</span>, chronic diseases, and poor preventive care are undermining employees during their prime working years.

Sleep Deprivation: A Silent Productivity KillerThe report, based on health data from over 46,000 employees across industries, found that nearly 1 in 10 workers suffer from sleep disorders, most of them between ages 23 and 39. This lack of rest translates to 11.3 lost workdays per employee every year, costing companies an estimated ₹2.1 lakh annually, as per the study.

<h2>Chronic Conditions Striking Earlier</h2>Cardiac issues, diabetes, and thyroid disorders are no longer diseases of old age. They are increasingly showing up in employees under 40, adding long-term pressure on both workers’ health and company healthcare costs.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Obesity</span> and the Prevention Gap</h2>Obesity is emerging as a ‘gateway’ condition, with 14% of employees obese, 71% of them in the 25–35 age bracket. Despite being the most vulnerable, younger employees are also least likely to undergo preventive screenings, delaying early detection of high-risk conditions.

<h2>Poor Sleep Is Leading To Poor <span rel="noindex">Mental Health</span></h2>The report also warns of the mental health toll of sleeplessness. Chronic fatigue, stress, and unmanaged conditions fuel declining resilience and rising emotional distress at work. As Rajesh Mundra, Founder and Executive Chairman of Truworth Wellness, notes, “Wellness can no longer be a checkbox activity, it must be embedded as a strategic business priority.”

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/blood-pressure-readings-simple-guide-high-low-or-normal-article-152893008" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">High, Low, or Normal? A Simple Guide To Understanding Blood Pressure Readings</a>

How Companies Can RespondTo tackle the crisis, the <span>World Health Organization</span> (WHO) recommends:

<ul><li>Training managers to recognize and respond to emotional distress.</li><li>Mental health literacy programs to reduce stigma and raise awareness.</li><li>Stress management and lifestyle interventions such as physical activity and psychosocial support.</li></ul>The Truworth report further calls for companies to make sleep and stress the foundation of wellness strategies, adopt gender- and age-responsive health pathways, and use early-warning systems to detect risks before they escalate.

<h2>The Business Case for Better Sleep</h2>Companies that invest in outcome-driven wellness programs already see 28% fewer sick leaves, 26% lower healthcare costs, and 11% higher revenue per employee. For every rupee spent, organizations save ₹289 in healthcare costs and ₹241 through reduced absenteeism.

<h2>A Wake-Up Call for Corporate Industries</h2>As sleep deprivation silently chips away at productivity, Indian businesses have an opportunity to treat wellness not as an add-on but as a strategic advantage. By tackling sleep, stress, and preventive care, organizations can build healthier, more resilient, and ultimately more productive workplaces.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/prediabetes-how-to-spot-the-silent-warning-signs-before-it-turns-into-type-2-diabetes-article-152880191" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Prediabetes: How To Spot the Silent Warning Signs Before It Turns Into Type-2 Diabetes</a>

By moving beyond generic wellness programs and focusing on measurable outcomes, Indian organizations can turn employee health into a strategic advantage. Embedding sleep, stress management, and preventive care into workplace wellness not only improves productivity but also builds a resilient workforce. The Truworth Wellness India Workplace Wellbeing Report 2025, conducted in collaboration with People Matters, highlights these insights and provides a roadmap for companies to act before small health risks escalate into costly chronic conditions.

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In today’s hyper-connected, always-on work culture, long hours and erratic shifts are quietly eating into one of the most essential pillars of health.. A new study by Truworth Wellness, India Workplace Wellbeing Report 2025: From Access to Outcomes, reveals how sleep deprivation, chronic diseases, and poor preventive care are undermining employees during their prime working years.Sleep Deprivation: A Silent Productivity KillerThe report, based on health data from over 46,000 employees across industries, found that nearly 1 in 10 workers suffer from sleep disorders, most of them between ages 23 and 39. This lack of rest translates to 11.3 lost workdays per employee every year, costing companies an estimated ₹2.1 lakh annually, as per the study.Chronic Conditions Striking EarlierCardiac issues, diabetes, and thyroid disorders are no longer diseases of old age. They are increasingly showing up in employees under 40, adding long-term pressure on both workers’ health and company healthcare costs.Obesity and the Prevention GapObesity is emerging as a ‘gateway’ condition, with 14% of employees obese, 71% of them in the 25–35 age bracket. Despite being the most vulnerable, younger employees are also least likely to undergo preventive screenings, delaying early detection of high-risk conditions.Poor Sleep Is Leading To Poor Mental HealthThe report also warns of the mental health toll of sleeplessness. Chronic fatigue, stress, and unmanaged conditions fuel declining resilience and rising emotional distress at work. As Rajesh Mundra, Founder and Executive Chairman of Truworth Wellness, notes, “Wellness can no longer be a checkbox activity, it must be embedded as a strategic business priority.”ALSO READ: High, Low, or Normal? A Simple Guide To Understanding Blood Pressure ReadingsHow Companies Can RespondTo tackle the crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends:Training managers to recognize and respond to emotional distress.Mental health literacy programs to reduce stigma and raise awareness.Stress management and lifestyle interventions such as physical activity and psychosocial support.The Truworth report further calls for companies to make sleep and stress the foundation of wellness strategies, adopt gender- and age-responsive health pathways, and use early-warning systems to detect risks before they escalate.The Business Case for Better SleepCompanies that invest in outcome-driven wellness programs already see 28% fewer sick leaves, 26% lower healthcare costs, and 11% higher revenue per employee. For every rupee spent, organizations save ₹289 in healthcare costs and ₹241 through reduced absenteeism.A Wake-Up Call for Corporate IndustriesAs sleep deprivation silently chips away at productivity, Indian businesses have an opportunity to treat wellness not as an add-on but as a strategic advantage. By tackling sleep, stress, and preventive care, organizations can build healthier, more resilient, and ultimately more productive workplaces.ALSO READ: Prediabetes: How To Spot the Silent Warning Signs Before It Turns Into Type-2 DiabetesBy moving beyond generic wellness programs and focusing on measurable outcomes, Indian organizations can turn employee health into a strategic advantage. Embedding sleep, stress management, and preventive care into workplace wellness not only improves productivity but also builds a resilient workforce. The Truworth Wellness India Workplace Wellbeing Report 2025, conducted in collaboration with People Matters, highlights these insights and provides a roadmap for companies to act before small health risks escalate into costly chronic conditions.

wellness report: 1 in 10 employees sleep-deprived, young workforce faces rising health risks

High, Low, or Normal? A Simple Guide To Understanding Blood Pressure Readings

Simple Guide To Understanding Blood Pressure Readings

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Half of all American adults have high blood pressure, also called hypertension, yet many don’t even know it. High blood pressure occurs when blood flows through your arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. Recently, cases of high blood pressure have been rising rapidly in the U.S. and globally. As these numbers climb, regularly checking your blood pressure becomes essential.

According to the 2025 <span>American Heart Association Statistical Update</span>, nearly half of U.S. adults, around 122 million people, have high blood pressure, a leading preventable cause of heart disease, stroke, and early death. Shockingly, only about one in four have their condition under control. To help you stay on top of your numbers, here’s a detailed guide to understanding blood pressure.

<span>Blood Pressure Readings</span> ExplainedBlood pressure is written as two numbers separated by a slash, such as 120/80 mm Hg, which can be read as “120 over 80 millimeters of mercury.”

The first number, or systolic pressure, measures the force of blood against artery walls when the heart pumps.

The second number, or diastolic pressure, measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/world-lung-day-2025-how-strong-are-your-lungs-do-these-tests-to-find-out-article-152891299" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">World Lung Day 2025: How Strong Are Your Lungs? Do These Tests To Find Out</a>

Blood pressure naturally changes throughout the day depending on activity, stress, and other factors. A healthy reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Blood pressure is considered high when systolic readings are 130 mm Hg or higher or diastolic readings are 80 mm Hg or higher.

<h2><span rel="noindex">New Blood Pressure Guidelines</span> by the American Heart Association</h2>In August 2025, the AHA and ACC updated blood pressure guidelines to emphasize early intervention and personalized care. Key points include:

<ul><li>Earlier Treatment: People with a 10-year cardiovascular risk of 10% or more are advised to start medication along with lifestyle changes.</li><li>Personalized Risk Assessment: Doctors may use the PREVENT™️ calculator to estimate 10-year risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.</li><li>Expanded Lab Testing: Tests such as the urine albumin:creatinine ratio help tailor treatment plans.</li><li>Lifestyle First: Limit sodium intake to 1,500 mg per day, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.</li><li>Alcohol Limits: Men: 2 drinks/day; women: 1 drink/day.</li></ul>

<h2><span rel="noindex">Blood Pressure Monitoring</span></h2>The American Heart Association recommends that everyone with high blood pressure monitor their readings at home. Home monitoring helps healthcare professionals track whether treatments are effective and can also help confirm a diagnosis of high blood pressure. However, it does not replace regular doctor visits, and you should never stop taking prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider, regardless of your home readings.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/this-small-mistake-can-change-your-blood-pressure-reading-according-to-doctor-article-152887352" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">This Small Mistake Can Change Your Blood Pressure Reading, According To Doctor</a>

Home monitoring is particularly important for:

<ul><li>Anyone already diagnosed with high blood pressure.</li><li>People starting or adjusting high blood pressure treatments, to see if they are working.</li><li>Individuals who require closer monitoring, especially those with risk factors for high blood pressure or related health conditions.</li></ul>High blood pressure often shows no obvious symptoms, making regular monitoring crucial. Understanding your readings is the first step in protecting your heart and overall health. Adopting healthy habits, balanced eating, regular exercise, and stress management can significantly reduce your risk. Even small, consistent changes today can lower the chances of serious complications like heart disease and stroke in the future.

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Half of all American adults have high blood pressure, also called hypertension, yet many don’t even know it. High blood pressure occurs when blood flows through your arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. Recently, cases of high blood pressure have been rising rapidly in the U.S. and globally. As these numbers climb, regularly checking your blood pressure becomes essential.According to the 2025 American Heart Association Statistical Update, nearly half of U.S. adults, around 122 million people, have high blood pressure, a leading preventable cause of heart disease, stroke, and early death. Shockingly, only about one in four have their condition under control. To help you stay on top of your numbers, here’s a detailed guide to understanding blood pressure.Blood Pressure Readings ExplainedBlood pressure is written as two numbers separated by a slash, such as 120/80 mm Hg, which can be read as “120 over 80 millimeters of mercury.”The first number, or systolic pressure, measures the force of blood against artery walls when the heart pumps.The second number, or diastolic pressure, measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats.ALSO READ: World Lung Day 2025: How Strong Are Your Lungs? Do These Tests To Find OutBlood pressure naturally changes throughout the day depending on activity, stress, and other factors. A healthy reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Blood pressure is considered high when systolic readings are 130 mm Hg or higher or diastolic readings are 80 mm Hg or higher.New Blood Pressure Guidelines by the American Heart AssociationIn August 2025, the AHA and ACC updated blood pressure guidelines to emphasize early intervention and personalized care. Key points include:Earlier Treatment: People with a 10-year cardiovascular risk of 10% or more are advised to start medication along with lifestyle changes.Personalized Risk Assessment: Doctors may use the PREVENT™️ calculator to estimate 10-year risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.Expanded Lab Testing: Tests such as the urine albumin:creatinine ratio help tailor treatment plans.Lifestyle First: Limit sodium intake to 1,500 mg per day, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.Alcohol Limits: Men: 2 drinks/day; women: 1 drink/day.Blood Pressure MonitoringThe American Heart Association recommends that everyone with high blood pressure monitor their readings at home. Home monitoring helps healthcare professionals track whether treatments are effective and can also help confirm a diagnosis of high blood pressure. However, it does not replace regular doctor visits, and you should never stop taking prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider, regardless of your home readings.ALSO READ: This Small Mistake Can Change Your Blood Pressure Reading, According To DoctorHome monitoring is particularly important for:Anyone already diagnosed with high blood pressure.People starting or adjusting high blood pressure treatments, to see if they are working.Individuals who require closer monitoring, especially those with risk factors for high blood pressure or related health conditions.High blood pressure often shows no obvious symptoms, making regular monitoring crucial. Understanding your readings is the first step in protecting your heart and overall health. Adopting healthy habits, balanced eating, regular exercise, and stress management can significantly reduce your risk. Even small, consistent changes today can lower the chances of serious complications like heart disease and stroke in the future.

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Could Your Mouth Be a Hidden Risk for Parkinson’s? New Research Says Yes

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