Every year, millions of individuals are affected by a deadly condition known as heart disease. According to the Heart Association, heart disease was still the leading cause of death in the country as of 2018. Tacking misinformation around cardiovascular topics isn’t for the faint of heart.
Believing in these outdated ideas may increase your risk of a heart attack. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself from false information.
Common heart disease myths
1. Men are more likely to have heart disease
Since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease. In reality, more women suffer from heart disease than men. It is the leading cause of death in women over age 65, making it essential to get regular screenings and checkups to manage health.
2. The same warning indications apply to all heart attacks
We are all familiar with the typical heart attack symptoms, including shortness of breath, arm/back pain, and chest pain. What if, we told you that you might not experience any of those signs and still experience a heart attack? According to studies, 1 in 5 heart attacks occurs “quietly.” These cardiac arrests go unreported and are occasionally found while the heart is being examined for another issue. It’s important to call your doctor if you have any worries and to not overlook even the tiniest symptoms.
3. It’s too late to quit smoking
Quitting is never too late. After only one year, quitting smoking can cut your chance of having a heart attack by 50%, and the benefit keeps getting better. Your risk equals that of a non-smoker after ten years of abstinence. Your heart, lungs, and body are negatively impacted by the poisons in cigarettes and tobacco. Every day you refrain from smoking is beneficial to your health.
4. Heart disease is unaffected by mental health
You may propose regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quitting smoking while considering measures to avoid heart disease. Many people do not believe that mental health is a component of heart health, though. Adults with depression are 64% more likely to develop coronary artery disease when compared to those without the condition, according to research. Cardiologists and mental health specialists can work together to give your heart the boost it needs.
5. As we become older, high blood pressure is normal
Yes, as you age, your blood pressure may somewhat rise, although this is generally due to the hardening of the artery walls. That implies that in order for your heart to adequately circulate blood, it must work harder. The objective is to maintain your blood pressure within the desired range; medication, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments can assist.
6. If you have a history of heart disease in your family, there is no way to prevent it
When you learn that your family has a history of heart illness and think there is nothing you can do to prevent cardiac arrest, it’s easy to feel defeated. It’s crucial to realize that this is untrue even though it’s simple to believe it. For those who have a history of heart disease in their families, taking preventative measures might literally save their lives.
7. Drinking has a greater impact on the liver than on the heart
It’s no secret that heavy drinking harms the liver, but it may also seriously harm the heart. In a study, researchers discovered proof that heavy drinking might harm heart cells even before symptoms appear. An excellent barrier against avoidable heart disease is moderate drinking.
People of all ages, including the physically healthy, can develop heart disease. It’s still crucial to maintain an active lifestyle, control your blood pressure and cholesterol, and follow a balanced diet to lower risk. Since you only have one heart, you want to take all possible measures to preserve its health. Working with an in-home care provider can assist you with organizing and cooking wholesome meals, remembering to take your prescriptions, setting up appointments, and maintaining an active lifestyle.
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