New Clue to Heart Threat

Stiff blood vessels raise the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. Researchers are now refining a more sensitive, non-invasive way to identify them before trouble strikes.

Scientists at John Hopkins University in Baltimore have found that pulse pressure, the number you get if you subtract the first part of a blood pressure reading from the second part, correlates to other warning signs of stiff arteries. But this is true only if the reading is taken during the maximum exertion on an exercise stress test.

A pulse pressure that looks normal at rest may actually rise to much higher levels with exercise, potentially into the danger zone. It's like a car engine that sounds fine at idle but sputters at higher speeds. Researchers have not yet determined the cut off point for dangerous exercise pulse pressure. But here is how you can get valuable clues about potential artery stiffness.

• Look at the first number – If you have had an exercise stress test or will soon, look at the first number in your blood pressure reading at maximum exertion. If it's higher that 210, it could indicate artery stiffness.
  
  
• Curious? No stress test information? – While resting pulse pressure is usually 40-50, a higher number could indicate potential stiff artery. (But keep in mind that resting pulse pressure could be misleadingly low.)
  
  
• Adopt an artery flexibility plan – Don't smoke. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and low fat dairy products and get regular exercise.