Heart Health: Debunking 3 Common Myths About Heart Diseases

False assumptions can be harmful to your heart, and everyone should be aware of these common myths to avoid unnecessary panic.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 17.9 million deaths each year. The words “heart disease” can be frightening, but there are many myths surrounding this term, and it is easy to be misled by misconceptions. By dispelling the most common heart disease myths, you can be better prepared to detect and treat heart disease in yourself or others before a heart attack or other serious health event occurs. Dr Narayan Gadkar, Consultant Cardiologist, Zen Multi speciality Hospital, Chembur explained some common heart health myths like:

Debunking 3 Common Myths About Heart Diseases:

Myth: I am young, I don’t need to worry about heart disease

Fact: Heart problems are not limited to older people anymore. Today, a large number of youngsters and adults are known to have a heart attack, cardiac arrest, or heart failure. A sedentary lifestyle, eating processed and packaged foods, not exercising, getting stressed and certain medications are known to trigger heart problems in youngsters. It is better to pay attention to your health irrespective of your age. Currently, there is a rising trend of heart problems in youngsters. So, it is better to stick to healthy lifestyle practices to take utmost care of the heart.

Myth: I have a family history of heart disease; hence, I cannot do anything to prevent it

Fact: Having a family history will surely raise your chances of heart disease such as heart attack or heart failure. But, you can certainly take some vital steps to keep heart problems at bay. Yes, you have heard it right! It is better to eat a diet inclusive of all the vital nutrients, exercise every day without fail, stay stress-free, manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and go for regular heart checkups. Know your family history and do not ignore your heart health.

Myth: Only chest pain is an indication of a heart attack

Fact: Having chest pain is associated with any problem in the heart. But one needs to know that there are many other signs of heart attack that shouldn’t be missed. Watch out for other signs and symptoms such as shortness of breath, heartburn, upper abdomen pain, nausea, vomiting, backache, jaw pain, dizziness, and fatigue. Do not ignore any abnormal changes in the body. Try to seek timely medical attention once you notice these symptoms. Stay alert and take care of your heart!