Dr Soumen Devidutta

  Cholesterol is one of the most misunderstood topics in heart health . Many people fear it, while others ignore it both of which can be harmful. Cholesterol is essential for building cells, producing hormones, and aiding digestion. But when levels rise beyond normal, it becomes a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and artery disease . Let’s clear up the confusion by breaking down the most common myths and facts about cholesterol. Myth 1: All Cholesterol Is Bad Fact: Your body needs cholesterol to function. There are two types: LDL (Bad Cholesterol) – Causes plaque buildup in arteries. HDL (Good Cholesterol) – Helps remove bad cholesterol from the blood. The goal is not to eliminate cholesterol, but to maintain a healthy balance . Myth 2: Only Overweight People Have High Cholesterol Fact: Anyone can have high cholesterol. Genetics, hormones, and diet all play a role. Even thin people can have: Familial Hypercholesterolemia Poor li...

  Winter brings cooler temperatures, seasonal infections, and lifestyle changes and for many people, it also brings an increased risk of AtrialFibrillation (AF) episodes. AF is the most common heart rhythm disorder, causing the upper chambers of the heart to beat irregularly and often rapidly. While it can occur any time of the year, research consistently shows a notable rise in AF cases during the winter season . Understanding why this happens can help patients take preventive steps and reduce their risk of complications. What Is Atrial Fibrillation? Atrial Fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that disrupts normal blood flow in the upper chambers of the heart. It can cause: Palpitations Dizziness Shortness of breath Fatigue Chest discomfort If untreated, AF increases the risk of stroke , heart failure , and blood clots . Why AF Episodes Increase During Winter 1. Cold Weather Strains the Heart Exposure to cold causes blood vessels to tighten (vasocons...