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الوسم: blood flow

  • Early Heart Disease Signs That Might Save Your Life

    Early Heart Disease Signs That Might Save Your Life

    Credit: Unsplash+

    Heart disease is still one of the leading health challenges around the globe.

    One common type occurs when the coronary arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart, become narrowed or blocked.

    The heart relies on these vessels to keep beating strong; any obstruction can be dangerous if not addressed promptly.

    Most blockages develop gradually over years. Cholesterol, fats, and other materials build up along the artery walls, forming deposits called plaques.

    As these plaques expand, they constrict the arteries, making it harder for blood to reach the heart. Inflammation can destabilize plaques, increasing the chance they’ll suddenly block blood flow and trigger a heart attack.

    The most recognized warning sign is chest pain, also known as angina. Many describe it as pressure, squeezing, heaviness, or tightness in the chest. This discomfort may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.

    It often occurs during physical activity, stress, or exertion because the heart demands more oxygen during these times.

    But chest pain isn’t the only symptom. Some individuals, especially those with diabetes, might experience a heart attack without intense pain. Diabetes can damage nerves that send pain signals, making it harder to detect serious issues.

    Shortness of breath is another common indicator. When the heart can’t pump enough blood, tissues get less oxygen, causing symptoms like breathlessness during routine activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even resting.

    Feeling unusually exhausted can also serve as an early warning. When everyday tasks suddenly feel overwhelming without a clear cause, it may indicate the heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently. This is particularly true for women and is often mistaken for stress, fatigue, or aging.

    Additional symptoms include nausea, dizziness, feeling faint, or experiencing rapid, irregular heartbeats known as palpitations. These signs can be confused with anxiety, indigestion, or other minor issues but should not be ignored if they’re new, severe, or occurring together.

    Experts stress the importance of acting swiftly when these warning signs appear. Delays can lead to irreversible heart damage. Immediate medical attention boosts the chances of recovery and survival.

    Many risk factors for blocked arteries can be minimized. Smoking, high blood pressure, elevated LDL cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, and inactivity all raise the likelihood of heart problems. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, Whole grains, and good fats, staying active, managing weight, and avoiding tobacco can all help protect heart health.

    Heart disease doesn’t always manifest with overt symptoms. Paying attention to bodily changes and seeking early medical advice can prevent severe complications. If you experience chest pain, unexplained breathlessness, unusual fatigue, or other warning signs, seek medical care immediately. Quick response might save your heart—and your life.

    If you’re interested in heart health, consider reviewing research on the optimal timing for vitamin intake to prevent heart disease, and learn how calcium supplements could negatively impact your heart health.

    For additional health updates, see recent studies indicating that blackcurrants can lower blood sugar after meals and findings on how dairy milk consumption might influence risks for heart disease and cancer.

    © 2026 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.

  • ‘Artery-on-a-Chip’ May Foretell Stroke Risk Early

    ‘Artery-on-a-Chip’ May Foretell Stroke Risk Early

    Doctors have long found it challenging to accurately predict who might experience an ischemic stroke. Sometimes, individuals with only minor artery narrowing suddenly develop dangerous blood clots, while others with more extensive disease show no symptoms at all.

    A recent study indicates that examining the unique shape of a person’s arteries could offer much clearer insights. Researchers at the University of Sydney have created a miniature laboratory device called an artery-on-a-chip, which serves as a physical replica of a patient’s artery. Their research, published in the journal Cell Biomaterials, shows that this technology aims to precisely mimic an individual’s blood vessels and the flow of blood through them.

    An ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, typically by a blood clot. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die in just minutes. Because rapid intervention is crucial, medical professionals are actively seeking improved ways to identify those at highest risk before a stroke happens.

    Presently, many assessment methods focus solely on the degree of artery narrowing. Yet, findings reveal that some patients with moderate narrowing still suffer strokes, whereas others with severe narrowing remain stable. Clearly, narrowing alone doesn’t provide the full picture.

    To explore this further, the researchers reconstructed carotid arteries from six patients with varying levels of artery disease—the carotid arteries being the main vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. They employed advanced computer modeling to analyze exactly how blood flows through each artery.

    The team found that arteries with similar levels of narrowing often exhibited drastically different blood flow patterns. Minor differences in the three-dimensional structure of the arteries created regions where blood flow was slower or turbulence occurred. These variations influenced clot formation and the likelihood of clots breaking free.

    Recreating each artery within a small chip, the scientists used cells resembling those lining real blood vessels. They also introduced tiny injuries to simulate damage common in diseased arteries. The clotting responses varied significantly between patients, highlighting how individual artery structure may strongly impact stroke risk.

    Lead researcher Professor Lining Arnold Ju explained that the project was driven by the need to better identify patients who seem to be at low risk but still suffer severe or fatal strokes. The study’s first author, Yunduo Charles Zhao, shared that his motivation deepened after losing his grandmother to a stroke during his doctoral studies, fueling his focus on improving stroke prediction.

    The team hopes that this new platform will enable scientists to test medications aimed at reducing clot formation, ultimately guiding doctors to tailor treatments based on each patient’s artery anatomy.

    Currently, patient recruitment for a clinical trial is underway to assess how well this technology predicts stroke risk in real-world clinical settings. Researchers also see potential applications for studying other vascular conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis, aneurysms, and peripheral artery disease.

    This early-stage research marks a significant step toward personalized stroke prevention. While larger clinical trials are necessary, the technology has the potential to help doctors identify high-risk individuals sooner, allowing for more targeted preventative therapies before a stroke occurs. The study was published in Cell Biomaterials.

    If stroke prevention interests you, explore studies suggesting that diets rich in flavonoids might lower stroke risk, and that the MIND diet could slow cognitive decline after a stroke.

    Additionally, recent research indicates antioxidants may help reduce dementia risk, and beverages like tea and coffee could potentially decrease the likelihood of stroke and dementia.

    Copyright © 2026 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.

  • Could This Diabetes Medication Transform Peripheral Artery Disease?

    Could This Diabetes Medication Transform Peripheral Artery Disease?

    Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a major complication for individuals with type 2 diabetes. It occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed, reducing blood flow to the feet and lower limbs. Symptoms may include leg pain when walking, numbness, slow-healing wounds, or changes in skin appearance. If blood flow becomes critically restricted, amputation could become necessary. Currently, treatment options that effectively slow PAD’s progression are limited, highlighting the importance of new research and discoveries.

    A recent study conducted by Cleveland Clinic researchers suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonist medications could offer substantial protection to high-risk individuals. Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, their research analyzed health records from over 2,000 adults who had both type 2 diabetes and PAD. The study compared patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists to those taking metformin, the most commonly prescribed diabetes drug worldwide.

    The findings indicated that patients on GLP-1 treatments experienced consistently improved outcomes. Overall mortality was reduced by 26%, and hospital admissions decreased by 13%. The need for amputations dropped by nearly half—48%—while procedures to unblock arteries also declined by 36%. Rates of heart attacks, strokes, and severe kidney disease remained similar between the groups.

    The most pronounced benefits were observed among patients with advanced PAD and those struggling with obesity. Obesity exacerbates blood vessel inflammation, damages blood vessels, and worsens insulin resistance—all factors that accelerate artery disease. GLP-1 medications may help mitigate these issues by reducing inflammation, enhancing blood vessel health, lowering body weight, and better managing blood sugar levels.

    Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (sold under the brands Ozempic and Wegovy), are already recognized for their roles in treating diabetes and obesity. Emerging research continues to reveal additional health benefits beyond blood sugar regulation.

    Experts not involved with the study caution that, given the retrospective nature of the research, these findings do not establish direct causation. Differences in patient groups and other variables might have influenced outcomes. Therefore, well-designed clinical trials are necessary to determine whether these medications truly reduce amputations and improve survival rates.

    Despite these limitations, the study offers promising evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists could become valuable in managing patients with both type 2 diabetes and PAD. The significant reductions in amputations and mortality merit further scientific exploration and clinical investigation.

    Future research, particularly randomized controlled trials, will be crucial to confirming these early results. If validated, GLP-1 medications could play an even more vital role in treating severe lower limb circulation issues associated with diabetes.

    For those interested in diabetes management, additional topics to explore include the role of vitamin D, the impact of diet on type 2 diabetes, which fruits are best for people with diabetes, and emerging evidence that low-calorie diets may help reverse the condition. There are also studies highlighting five vitamins that could prevent complications related to diabetes.

    Source: Cleveland Clinic.

  • AI Toe Scan Quickly Detects Hidden Artery Disease

    AI Toe Scan Quickly Detects Hidden Artery Disease

    Credit: Unsplash+


    Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a widespread condition that often goes unnoticed, yet it impacts blood flow throughout the body.

    This disease develops when fatty deposits, known as plaque, accumulate inside arteries, causing them to narrow over time. As a result, less blood reaches the legs and feet.

    Approximately 8 to 12 million Americans have PAD, with millions more worldwide affected. Despite its prevalence, many people remain undiagnosed until the disease advances to a more serious stage.

    Some individuals experience pain during walking or exercise, others may notice numbness, weakness in their legs, slow-healing wounds, or skin discoloration. Many individuals, however, show no noticeable symptoms at all.

    This delay in diagnosis can be risky. PAD is a leading cause of limb amputations because insufficient blood flow can damage tissue and hinder wound healing. It’s also strongly associated with heart disease and stroke, making early detection critical for public health.

    Today, doctors typically diagnose PAD using the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, which compares blood pressure readings from the ankles and arms to identify circulation issues. While reliable, this process can be slow and requires special equipment and trained personnel.

    Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, believe they’ve discovered a quicker, simpler screening method. Their new research indicates that using a technology called photoplethysmography (PPG), coupled with artificial intelligence, can accurately identify signs of PAD.

    The study was published in npj Digital Medicine.

    Photoplethysmography, or PPG, is already used in many health devices today. It works by shining light onto the skin and measuring how much light bounces back. Since blood flow influences how light behaves inside tissues, analyzing these signals can reveal circulation details.

    Most people have used PPG without realizing it. Pulse oximeters clipped onto fingers in hospitals utilize this technology to measure oxygen levels and pulse rate.

    For this study, researchers placed a light sensor on patients’ toes to capture blood flow signals. They then employed artificial intelligence to analyze patterns within these signals, looking for indicators of PAD.

    The project started when Dr. Mattheus Ramsis, a cardiology informatics expert at UC San Diego, learned that toe PPG signals were already being recorded during routine ABI tests. He saw potential in these signals as standalone diagnostic markers.

    The team collected over 10,000 toe PPG recordings from more than 3,500 patients treated at UC San Diego Health between 2020 and 2025. Using this large dataset, they identified numerous features within the signals linked to blood flow abnormalities.

    They then developed a machine learning model capable of predicting PAD presence solely based on the PPG data.

    The AI system performed impressively, correctly identifying PAD cases about 83% of the time. In comparison, traditional risk assessments typically reach only 60% to 65% accuracy.

    The researchers found that including patients’ smoking history slightly improved the model’s accuracy. Since smoking significantly damages blood vessels and reduces circulation, it’s a critical risk factor for PAD.

    Importantly, the model performed consistently across diverse patient groups, including different races—Black, Hispanic, and White patients—as well as individuals with diabetes, coronary artery disease, or kidney failure.

    The team envisions this method making PAD screening more accessible. Since PPG tech is integrated into smartphones, wearables, and blood pressure monitors, future iterations could enable individuals to screen themselves at home.

    This approach could be especially beneficial for underserved populations who face barriers like transportation, cost, or limited access to healthcare. Earlier detection might allow for prompt treatment, helping prevent severe outcomes like amputations.

    Dr. Ramsis clarified that this isn’t meant to replace ABI testing but act as a quick, preliminary screening tool to identify those needing further evaluation.

    This research aligns with a growing focus on digital diagnostics in medicine. AI analysis of signals related to heartbeat, respiration, or blood flow could facilitate earlier, cheaper disease detection in the future.

    Overall, the study is promising, leveraging existing technology that is already widespread. The sizable patient data and consistent results across racial groups build confidence in the findings.

    Nonetheless, since the study was conducted within a single healthcare system, further testing in broader populations and with different devices is necessary. The accuracy, though impressive, remains below comprehensive diagnostic methods, indicating that this system is best suited for initial screening rather than definitive diagnosis.

    Despite these limitations, the development of AI-based blood flow screening has the potential to become an important tool in preventing serious complications related to PAD.

    If you’re concerned with cardiovascular health, consider exploring studies on how drinking milk may influence heart disease risk, or how herbal supplements might affect heart rhythms.

    For additional insights, see recent research on how espresso impacts cholesterol levels, and findings suggesting Vitamin K2 might help lower heart disease risk.

    Source: University of California, San Diego.



  • Mini-strokes Last Minutes but Signal Nearby Stroke Risk

    Mini-strokes Last Minutes but Signal Nearby Stroke Risk

    A mini-stroke may seem less serious than a full-blown stroke, but medical professionals emphasize that it should never be overlooked. Known medically as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), a mini-stroke often serves as a critical warning that a major stroke could occur soon.

    Unlike severe strokes, the symptoms of a mini-stroke typically resolve quickly. Some individuals recover within minutes, while others may experience symptoms lasting a few hours. Because these signs often disappear, many assume the event is harmless. However, experts warn that a TIA is a serious medical emergency, indicating a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain.

    The brain relies on a continuous supply of oxygen-rich blood to function properly. When this blood flow is interrupted—even briefly—brain cells can become stressed or damaged. During a mini-stroke, the blockage usually clears before permanent injury occurs. Nonetheless, this temporary event is often a sign that blood vessels or the heart are not healthy and may increase the risk of a larger stroke down the line.

    Research shows that the risk of a full stroke significantly heightens during the first few days after a TIA. That’s why prompt medical care is crucial, even if symptoms fade. Experts have dedicated years to understanding what causes mini-strokes and how to prevent them. Blood clots are among the most common culprits.

    Blood clots can form in damaged or narrowed arteries, temporarily blocking blood flow to the brain. Sometimes, clots originate elsewhere in the body and travel through the bloodstream until they lodge in smaller arteries in the brain. The heart is a major source of these clots, particularly in individuals with atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. AFib creates conditions where blood can pool in the heart, forming clots that may then travel to the brain, triggering either mini-strokes or bigger strokes. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Neurology confirmed that heart-related clots are a significant cause of TIAs in people with AFib.

    Another primary cause is atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits—called plaques—gradually accumulate in the artery walls. Over time, these arteries become narrower and less flexible, hampering healthy blood flow. The buildup of plaques makes it easier for clots to form and obstruct circulation. Atherosclerosis can affect arteries throughout the body, including those supplying the brain.

    High cholesterol levels play a key role in plaque formation, as excess cholesterol sticks to artery walls and promotes blockages. Additionally, high blood pressure damages blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of blockages and rupture. Managing both blood pressure and cholesterol is essential in lowering the chances of experiencing a mini-stroke or a full stroke.

    Elevated blood pressure remains one of the strongest risk factors for stroke. Over time, high pressure weakens vessel walls, making them more susceptible to blockages or ruptures. Studies published in the American Journal of Hypertension demonstrate that controlling blood pressure through medication and healthier lifestyle choices significantly reduces the risk of both TIAs and major strokes.

    Diabetes further complicates the risk profile. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time and promote inflammation, increasing the tendency for clot formation. The journal Diabetes Care indicates that maintaining proper blood sugar control through diet, exercise, and medication can help lower the risk of mini-strokes among diabetics.

    Smoking is another major contributor to vascular damage. Chemicals in cigarettes harm the artery lining, speed up plaque buildup, and promote clot formation. Smoking also diminishes oxygen levels in the blood and exacerbates conditions like atherosclerosis. When combined with other unhealthy habits—such as poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, or heavy alcohol consumption—the risk increases even further.

    Research compiled in the journal Stroke highlights the benefits of lifestyle modifications in reducing stroke risk. Quitting smoking, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly safeguard blood vessels and improve overall cardiovascular health.

    Recognizing mini-stroke symptoms early is vital because swift treatment can prevent more severe events. Symptoms often appear suddenly and may include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, speech difficulties, confusion, dizziness, vision problems, loss of balance, or a severe headache. Some individuals notice facial drooping or difficulty lifting one arm, while others struggle to speak or understand simple sentences.

    Even if symptoms resolve quickly, medical professionals urge immediate evaluation. Such assessments can identify the cause and initiate treatments—such as blood thinners, blood pressure management, cholesterol reduction, or lifestyle changes—that decrease the likelihood of future strokes. In certain cases, surgery may be necessary to open severely narrowed arteries.

    The core message from healthcare providers is that a mini-stroke is no small matter. It’s an urgent warning sign from the body indicating that something is wrong with the blood vessels or heart. Fortunately, many risk factors are modifiable. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, and attending routine medical check-ups can substantially diminish the risk.

    Ongoing research continues to improve understanding of stroke prevention, as strokes remain a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Better insights into mini-strokes may help doctors identify high-risk individuals earlier and implement effective measures to prevent devastating events.

    Recent studies suggest that diets high in flavonoids may reduce stroke risk, and adopting dietary patterns like the MIND diet could slow cognitive decline after a stroke. Additionally, antioxidants might help lower the risk of dementia, and beverage choices like tea and coffee may also play a role in decreasing the chances of stroke and related cognitive issues.

    Copyright © 2026 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.