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Busting Common Myths Related to Your Heart Health

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Busting Common Myths Related to Your Heart Health

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. .

Myth 1 - Heart disease only affects older adults

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. 

Myth 2 - You cannot have hypertension unless you start experiencing the warning signs. 

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. 

Myth 3 - Chest pain means heart attack and vice versa 

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. 

Myth 4 - If heart disease runs in your family, you can do nothing to prevent it. 

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. 

Myth 5 - There is no correlation between your leg pain and your heart. 

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. 

Myth 6 - Women don’t need to worry about heart disease.

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.

Myth 7 - People with normal cholesterol levels don’t need to worry about heart disease.

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. 

Myth 8 - You can’t do anything about heart disease if it runs in your family.

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.

Myth 9 - Eating fat is bad for your heart.

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.

Myth10 - You can’t have a heart attack without chest pain.

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. 

Myth 11 - Stress doesn’t affect heart health.

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. 

Myth 12 - Supplements can prevent heart disease.

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.

Myth 13 - All heart attacks are sudden and intense.

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.

Myth 14 - Heart disease is primarily a man's disease.

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.

FAQs

Is it true that only older people are at risk of heart disease?

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. 

Can I have high blood pressure without experiencing any symptoms?

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.

Is chest pain always a sign of a heart attack?

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.