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These subtle symptoms could signal a silent heart attack

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. April, 2026

These subtle symptoms could signal a silent heart attack

A heart attack can occur without the classic symptoms and therefore go unnoticed, according to Prevention.

Many people only discover it too late, even though the body actually sends signals along the way.

Shortness of breath

Problems in the heart and circulatory system quickly affect breathing.

You may become short of breath during very light activity or even experience breathlessness at rest, without it necessarily feeling like a classic attack.

Rapid heartbeat

When something is wrong, the heart tries to compensate by beating faster.

This may be experienced as palpitations or an irregular rhythm, where the heart feels as though it is skipping beats.

Sudden fatigue

The body prioritizes vital functions, which can lead to an overwhelming feeling of fatigue. Muscles may feel heavy, and it may become difficult to walk or stand.

Nausea or indigestion

As a precursor to a heart attack, the digestive system may receive less oxygen. This can lead to nausea, stomach cramps, or a sensation similar to heartburn.

Pain in the body

Symptoms may appear as soreness in the chest, back, or arms. Some people also experience jaw pain or a sensation resembling the flu.

A general feeling of discomfort

A general sense of feeling unwell can be difficult to interpret.

If it occurs alongside a rapid heartbeat or extreme fatigue, it may be a sign of something more serious.

Symptoms without clear signs

A silent heart attack does not always present the classic symptoms that typically lead to emergency treatment. Therefore, it can occur without the person being aware of it.

Can occur during sleep

A silent heart attack can happen while you are asleep. You may briefly wake up and misinterpret it as a bad dream or snoring.

Often discovered later

Many people only find out they have had a silent heart attack when they are examined after a subsequent attack, where the damage becomes visible in test results.

Same risk factors as other heart attacks

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, stress, substance use, and heredity increase the risk of silent heart attacks.

People with diabetes are particularly at risk

Long-term diabetes can damage the nerves that normally warn the body of a heart attack, making symptoms harder to detect.

Women may have more difficulty recognizing symptoms

Women more often experience atypical symptoms such as abdominal pain or general discomfort, which can make it harder to identify a heart attack.

Lifestyle can reduce the risk

Healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, reduced stress, sufficient sleep, and social connections can strengthen the heart and lower the risk.

Medical follow-up may be necessary

If heart problems run in the family, it may be relevant to speak with a doctor about medication and to have blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked.

Sources: Prevention.

New study: Poor sleep affects life during menopause

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. April, 2026

New study: Poor sleep affects life during menopause

Sleep is important for both body and mind, but for many, it deteriorates during menopause.

According to an Ipsos survey presented at a knowledge webinar on April 21, many women have difficulty sleeping during this period.

The study, described by the media outlet Alexandra, explains that women report poor sleep several nights a week over many years, making it a persistent issue.

Poor sleep can affect daily life, making it harder to work, think clearly, and maintain energy throughout the day.

What happens in the body?

Researchers explain that hormonal changes play an important role. The body changes during menopause, which can disrupt sleep.

When sleep quality declines, it also affects mood and concentration. This can make it more difficult to make decisions and recover.

At the same time, there is still too little knowledge about how menopause affects women, both physically and mentally.

An overlooked problem

There are various ways to treat sleep problems. These include both medical solutions and changes in habits.

Experts point out that more focus on the issue is needed, as it can have significant consequences over time.

According to the study, insomnia is the most burdensome symptom of menopause for many women.

Sources: Alexandra and Ipsos survey.

Critics raise concerns over Trump’s easing of cannabis regulations

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. April, 2026

Critics raise concerns over Trump’s easing of cannabis regulations

For several years, U.S. authorities have been working to revise cannabis regulations.

According to The Washington Post, the process has been delayed by legal requirements and health-related assessments.

As early as 2024, it was proposed to change the classification, but the process was prolonged.

Experts explain that authorities must ensure that any changes do not harm public health.

At the same time, there has been political pressure to deliver faster results.

Focus on research

A key argument for the change is improved opportunities for research.

Previous regulations have made it difficult to study cannabis as a medical treatment, The Washington Post reports.

Several health stakeholders believe that easier access could help patients and provide doctors with better knowledge.

At the same time, the change aligns more closely with the rules already adopted by many states.

However, public opinion is not uniform. Although many support easing restrictions, support has declined slightly in recent years.

Disagreement over effects

Not everyone agrees with the decision. Critics warn of possible health risks and point to research on negative effects, particularly among young people.

Others argue that economic interests may influence the decisions.

The United States has now reclassified medical cannabis into a lower-risk category, known as Schedule III.

This means it is treated similarly to certain types of prescription medication. The change applies only to medical use and does not make cannabis legal for recreational use.

Sources: The Washington Post.

Sleep problems may increase the risk of dementia

Mie Hermansen

24. April, 2026

Sleep problems may increase the risk of dementia

It often begins quietly. A restless night here, a few hours of lost sleep there. Many people learn to push through fatigue, treating it as a normal part of modern life.

But growing evidence suggests the long-term impact may be more serious than expected.

According to research from Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, published in the Journal of Gerontology: Series A and reported by Daniele Particelli, sleep disturbances may be linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline, reports Gazzetta.

The findings indicate that insomnia could play a role in a notable share of dementia cases.

Sleep and the brain

Sleep is essential for the brain’s nightly maintenance. During rest, the brain processes information, consolidates memory, and clears out waste products that accumulate throughout the day.

When sleep is consistently disrupted, these processes may not function properly. Over time, this can affect attention, memory, and overall cognitive performance.

An overlooked factor

Researchers estimate that roughly one in eight dementia cases could be associated with ongoing sleep problems. This places insomnia among the more significant, yet often underestimated, risk factors.

The connection becomes especially relevant with age, as sleep disorders are more common in older adults, increasing potential vulnerability.

Warning signs

Certain patterns may indicate that sleep quality is compromised:

Difficulty falling asleep
Frequent waking during the night
Feeling tired despite spending enough time in bed

Recognizing these signs early may help reduce potential long-term effects.

The findings highlight that sleep is not just about daily energy levels, but also about protecting brain health over time.

How mold can affect your body if you eat it

Mie Hermansen

24. April, 2026

How mold can affect your body if you eat it

According to an article from NBC Connecticut, based on expert insights reported by most people have encountered moldy food at some point, sometimes only after taking a bite. While it may seem unpleasant, small amounts are rarely dangerous.

Mold in food is usually harmless in small quantities, but certain types can pose real health risks.

What is mold?

Mold consists of microscopic fungi found almost everywhere in nature. They spread through tiny spores that exist in the air, on our skin, and on food.

Why does mold grow on food?

Mold thrives in moist, warm environments with access to oxygen. This is why it often develops on food that is stored improperly or kept for too long.

Mold is almost everywhere

Spores are a natural part of the environment and can easily land on food. Even in the refrigerator, mold can develop over time.

Good and bad types of mold

There are harmless, harmful, and toxic types of mold. Some are intentionally used in food production, while others indicate spoilage.

Mold in cheese is safe

Certain cheeses are made using controlled mold cultures that are safe to eat. These molds are intentionally added during production.

Mold on spoiled food

Mold on food can appear in different colors and textures. Bread may develop green or black spots, while berries often grow a white, fuzzy coating.

What happens if you eat mold?

Foto: ChristianLphoto / Shutterstock.com

In most cases, the body breaks down small amounts of mold without any issues. Healthy individuals typically do not get sick.

Risk for people with weakened immune systems

People with compromised immune systems have a higher risk of infections from mold and should avoid it completely.

Toxic substances from mold

Some types of mold produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful and, in certain cases, carcinogenic.

How much mold is dangerous?

Small amounts rarely cause symptoms, but consuming larger quantities may lead to nausea or stomach discomfort.

Allergic reactions

Some individuals may have allergic reactions to mold, even in small amounts. Symptoms can include sneezing, a runny nose, or throat irritation.

Can you cut mold off?

Mold can penetrate deep into food, so removing the visible part is not enough. The entire item should be discarded.

Do you eat healthily? Fruits and vegetables may increase your risk of lung cancer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. April, 2026

Do you eat healthily? Fruits and vegetables may increase your risk of lung cancer

Lung cancer typically affects older people, especially smokers.

However, according to the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, more cases are now being seen among non-smokers under the age of 50, particularly women.

At the same time, the overall number of lung cancer cases in the United States has declined since the 1980s, as fewer people smoke.

This new trend therefore stands out and has prompted researchers to investigate the causes more closely.

A new study described by SciTechDaily, involving 187 patients, found that most had never smoked, and that their type of lung cancer also differs from the one typically seen in smokers.

Diet and data

The researchers examined participants’ diets using a scoring system. It showed that the young patients generally ate more healthily than the U.S. average.

They consumed more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The women in the study had the highest scores, which also aligns with the fact that more women in the group developed the disease.

The information is based on participants’ own responses about diet and lifestyle. This provides a good overview but cannot, on its own, explain the cause.

Possible explanations

The researchers point to environmental factors as a possible explanation.

In particular, pesticides in food are highlighted, as these substances are often found in conventionally grown products.

Previous studies show that people with high exposure to pesticides, such as agricultural workers, are more likely to develop lung cancer.

In this study, however, exposure was not measured directly but was assessed based on existing data.

It is not necessarily healthy food itself that is the problem. Instead, substances in the environment surrounding the food may play a role in the development of lung cancer among young non-smokers.

Sources: SciTechDaily and USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.

New technique tested in France could lead to more than 25 percent weight loss

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. April, 2026

New technique tested in France could lead to more than 25 percent weight loss

A patient was treated at the University Hospital in Nice using a new method.

According to Ouest-France, citing Actu Nice, the procedure went smoothly, and the patient was able to return home the same day.

The hospital states that the method is new in France and is therefore still under observation.

At the same time, the hospital’s own data suggest that the results may be better than those of previous treatments.

How does it work?

The treatment is carried out using a thin instrument that is inserted into the stomach.

There, the lining of a part of the stomach that plays a role in the feeling of hunger is affected.

The aim is to reduce the production of a hormone that regulates appetite. The method is used in combination with another technique that reduces the size of the stomach.

According to the hospital, this combination may result in greater weight loss than the established method alone.

Treatment of severe obesity

The hospital describes the treatment as minimally invasive, as it requires neither surgery nor medication.

This may make it relevant for patients who do not want more invasive forms of treatment.

It is a new method for treating severe obesity that has been used for the first time in France and, according to the hospital, may lead to weight loss of more than 25 percent, compared with around 15 percent with the previous method.

Sources: Ouest-France and Actu Nice.

Early signs of kidney disease you should be aware of

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Early signs of kidney disease you should be aware of

Kidney disease can be difficult to detect because the symptoms are often mild and nonspecific, according to Prevention.

As a result, the condition is often discovered late, even though it is widespread and serious.

The symptoms are often very subtle

Signs of kidney damage are usually so mild that they are only noticed at a late stage, when significant damage may already have occurred.

You can lose most of your kidney function without noticing

It is possible to lose up to 90 percent of kidney function without clear symptoms, making early detection difficult.

Several important functions

The kidneys filter the blood, regulate blood pressure, contribute to strong bones, and support the production of red blood cells.

Diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk

The two most common causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure, and a large proportion of patients with these conditions develop kidney problems.

Regular blood tests

An annual blood test can reveal elevated levels of the waste product creatinine, which may lead to further examinations such as urine tests or scans.

Certain types of medication can harm the kidneys

Some medications can be harmful to the kidneys, including certain painkillers, antibiotics, and drugs containing lithium or iodine.

Swollen ankles

If the kidneys are not functioning properly, fluid can build up in the body and cause swelling, especially in the feet, ankles, and legs.

Reduced urination

When fluid is retained in the body, it can lead to urinating less than usual, even if fluid intake remains the same.

Fatigue

Kidney problems can affect hemoglobin levels and lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness.

Nausea and reduced appetite

A buildup of waste products in the body can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and a lack of appetite.

High blood pressure

Damaged kidneys have more difficulty regulating blood pressure, and at the same time, high blood pressure can worsen kidney damage.

Heart palpitations

A buildup of potassium in the body can lead to an irregular or rapid heart rhythm.

Difficulty concentrating

Waste products in the blood can affect the brain and lead to problems with memory, focus, and clear thinking.

Sources: Prevention.

Common drugs show new promise against fatty liver

Mie Hermansen

23. April, 2026

Common drugs show new promise against fatty liver

You don’t always feel it happening. A bit of fatigue, maybe some weight gain, and life goes on.

But beneath the surface, your liver could be storing more fat than it should, quietly increasing long-term health risks.

According to the University of Barcelona, researchers are now exploring a new way to tackle this widespread issue using medications that are already on the market, according to Science Daily.

A growing threat

Fatty liver disease, now affecting around one in three adults, develops when excess fat accumulates in liver cells.

Over time, this can lead to serious complications, including a higher risk of heart disease.

With limited treatment options available, scientists have been searching for alternatives that are both effective and safe, especially in the early stages when symptoms are often absent.

An unexpected pairing

Led by Professor Marta Alegret, the research team examined two existing drugs: pemafibrate, used for lipid control, and telmisartan, commonly prescribed for high blood pressure.

Tests on animal models showed that combining the two significantly reduced liver fat caused by unhealthy diets.

Interestingly, using smaller doses together achieved results similar to higher doses of each drug individually.

The combined approach was linked to:

Lower liver fat levels
Improved cholesterol and blood pressure markers
Reduced overall cardiovascular risk

Still early days

The study also suggests the drugs influence different metabolic pathways, which may explain their combined effect. However, the findings are still limited to animal research.

Human trials will be necessary before this approach can be considered for widespread treatment.

Researchers are continuing to investigate whether the same method could help more advanced cases.

Your bedtime may increase the risk of heart disease

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

23. April, 2026

Your bedtime may increase the risk of heart disease

Heart health is often associated with a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking.

These recommendations are well documented and widely promoted by health organizations, Prevention writes.

Sleep is also mentioned, but it often receives less attention. Most people know it is important to get enough sleep, but fewer consider how consistent routines play a role.

The body’s rhythm

The body operates according to an internal circadian rhythm, which regulates factors such as heart rate, blood pressure, and hormones. This rhythm is closely linked to when we go to bed.

If bedtime varies significantly, it can disrupt the body’s natural balance. This may lead to increased strain on the body and affect factors such as weight and blood pressure.

Over time, such changes can increase the risk of disease, especially if sleep duration also decreases.

New findings

A study from BMC Cardiovascular Disorders followed more than 3,000 individuals over ten years.

Researchers measured participants’ sleep habits and compared them with data on heart disease.

The results showed that individuals with irregular bedtimes had a higher risk of conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.

This remained true even after accounting for other risk factors.

It was particularly fluctuating bedtimes that made a difference, rather than the time people woke up.

Sources: Prevention and BMC Cardiovascular Disorders.

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Shortness of breath

Rapid heartbeat

Sudden fatigue

Nausea or indigestion

Pain in the body

A general feeling of discomfort

Symptoms without clear signs

Can occur during sleep

Often discovered later

Same risk factors as other heart attacks

People with diabetes are particularly at risk

Women may have more difficulty recognizing symptoms

Lifestyle can reduce the risk

Medical follow-up may be necessary

What happens in the body?

An overlooked problem

Focus on research

Disagreement over effects

Sleep and the brain

An overlooked factor

Warning signs

What is mold?

Why does mold grow on food?

Mold is almost everywhere

Good and bad types of mold

Mold in cheese is safe

Mold on spoiled food

What happens if you eat mold?

Risk for people with weakened immune systems

Toxic substances from mold

How much mold is dangerous?

Allergic reactions

Can you cut mold off?

Diet and data

Possible explanations

How does it work?

Treatment of severe obesity

The symptoms are often very subtle

You can lose most of your kidney function without noticing

Several important functions

Diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk

Regular blood tests

Certain types of medication can harm the kidneys

Swollen ankles

Reduced urination

Fatigue

Nausea and reduced appetite

High blood pressure

Heart palpitations

Difficulty concentrating

A growing threat

An unexpected pairing

Still early days

The body’s rhythm

New findings

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