Cardiology | by Dr. Ashok B Malpani | Published on 15/08/2024
Over the past few decades, various innovations and advancements in the field of cardiology have helped us to learn more and more about the human heart, its functioning, and the diseases that affect it. In an era when heart diseases are becoming so common, it is important that we only stick to reliable information and facts. Let’s start with busting some common heart health myths with our specialization. Along with this, for good heart health, you can book an Appointment with the best cardiologist in Kolkata, BM Birla Heart Research Center. .
It is a common belief that young people are not susceptible to heart disease and as such, they don’t need to worry about eating healthy and staying active. Well, this is completely wrong as heart diseases can affect people irrespective of their age group. No doubt elderlies are at a higher risk, but this does not mean that younger people are completely immune. Your present lifestyle choices will have a very deep impact on your cardiovascular health. So, it is very important to prioritize your heart health from the very beginning.
This is again a common heart disease misconception. Not every person suffering from a disease is likely to experience the same symptoms. The same holds for hypertension as well. As per the best cardiologist in Kolkata, many people suffering from hypertension may not experience any symptoms at all. This is the reason why hypertension is also referred as the silent killer. Seek immediate medical help if your blood pressure is on the higher side.
Chest pain is one of the signs of a heart attack but not the only sign. Also, chest pain does not necessarily indicate a heart attack as it may be associated with a variety of other health issues. People often tend to take these symptoms lightly, believing that they only need to see a doctor when they are experiencing angina and chest pain, and this leads to delayed treatment.
Many heart diseases tend to run in families, which means that if any of your family members have it, you are quite likely to develop the same. However, having a family history of heart disease does not necessarily mean that you are going to develop the same. No doubt your risks are high but with the right guidance and healthy lifestyle choices, you can easily protect your heart. You can find some of the best heart doctors at BM Birla Hospital, who will help you with the same.
We often tend to associate leg pain with some orthopedic condition. However, it is pertinent to know that leg pain is not always a sign of some joint problem and it may be linked to your heart. Leg pain is a common sign of peripheral artery disease which is marked by a severe obstruction in the arteries present in the lower limbs owing to the buildup of plaque.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death. But it is a myth that Women don’t need to worry about heart disease. Women are more exposed to heart diseases. They must manage risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, especially during pregnancy.
To some extent, this myth is true. Cholesterol is one of the major factors, but one should manage other risk factors like high blood pressure,diabetes, smoking, obesity, and family history to avoid any kind of heart disease.
It is true that in heart disease genetics play a crucial role, but along with this lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management can reduce the risk of heart disease even with a family history.
It is also a heart health myth. There are two types of fats - Saturated and Unsaturated fats. So, not all fats are harmful. Unsaturated fats found in fish, nuts, and olive oil are beneficial, but Saturated fat food products like baked food, meat, beef, and processed food can harm your heart health. It's about choosing the right types of fats.
This is a common heart disease misconception. Due to a heart attack, one may face symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, jaw pain, or fatigue. It's essential to recognize other signs and seek immediate medical attention.
Stress is the major cause of bad heart health. It is one of the major cardiovascular health facts that by managing stress you can achieve good heart health. Apart from this, chronic stress can raise blood pressure, increase heart rate, and contribute to unhealthy habits.
For good heart health, it is advisable to have a healthy diet as they are the best source of nutrients. While some supplements might have few benefits, but they can’t replace a balanced diet and lifestyle. So, it is a myth that Supplements can prevent heart disease.
This is not true. Some heart attacks start slowly with mild discomfort. Even in most cases, people may experience symptoms before the heart attack. Recognizing those symptoms and seeking medical help timely can prevent your heart from permanent failure.
Undoubtedly, heart disease is the leading cause of death in both sexes, but it is a myth that heart disease is primarily a man's disease. However, some symptoms differ among women, so women had to be more aware of the risk factors. Therefore, learn about differences in risk factors, experiences, and related conditions, like heart attacks.
It is necessary to understand that people of different age groups are at risk for heart disease. Therefore, the risk of this disease increases with age, hence, you need to follow a healthy lifestyle to maintain good heart health.
Yes, high blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" because people face this condition without any noticeable symptoms. In this scenario, regular check-ups are essential for early detection.
No, chest pain is not always linked to heart disease or heart attack. It can be caused due to various health conditions like acidity, and other health ailments. The common symptoms of a heart attack are shortness of breath, jaw pain, or fatigue, which should also be taken seriously.