Heart disease is surrounded by so many myths that it’s easy to get confused. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can do more harm than good. They may stop people from talking openly with their doctors, lead to poor health decisions, or discourage crucial lifestyle changes and treatments.
In celebration of National Heart Month, let’s set the record straight on eight common heart disease myths. Understanding the facts could make all the difference in protecting your heart health.
Myth 1: Only older adults get heart disease
Fact: While it’s true that the risk of heart disease typically affects people 65 years or older, younger adults are not exempted. The rate of heart attacks among people under 40 years old is now on the rise, according to the American College of Cardiology.
This is why it is essential to take preventive steps early. Don’t wait until you’re older to start caring for your heart as the healthy habits you have now can make all the difference in protecting your heart in the years to come.
Myth 2: Heart disease is mostly a man’s problem
Fact: Heart disease isn’t just a man’s issue—it’s also the leading cause of death among women. However, it can develop and present differently in men and women. For example, women often develop heart disease about 10 years later than men.
While both men and women may experience classic heart attack symptoms like chest pain, women are also more likely to experience additional, less typical symptoms such as shortness of breath, indigestion, or back pain. These symptoms can occur with or without chest pain, making them easier to dismiss. Women also face unique risk factors for heart disease. For instance, stress and depression can have a more significant impact on women’s heart health than on men’s.
Myth 3: If you don’t have symptoms, your heart is fine
Fact: Heart disease often progresses silently. Conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol can cause damage to your heart over time without any noticeable symptoms. This is why, for some people, the only time they’ll know they have heart disease is when they experience a major life-threatening event like a heart attack.
Don’t wait until you experience symptoms before you act. Have regular checkups and screenings to catch and treat heart disease early.
Myth 4: If heart disease runs in your family, there’s nothing you can do to prevent it
Fact: A family history of heart disease increases your risk, but it doesn’t mean your fate is sealed. Lifestyle choices also play a huge role in your heart health. So, eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, quitting smoking, and managing stress can all help offset genetic risks.
Myth 5: Exercise is dangerous if you have heart disease
Fact: For most people with heart disease, regular exercise is one of the best ways to improve heart health. Light to moderate activities like walking, biking, or swimming can strengthen your heart, reduce blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
However, it’s important to consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine, especially if you’ve recently had a heart attack, undergone a procedure or surgery, experienced chest pain or shortness of breath, or have conditions like diabetes. Your doctor can guide you on what’s safe and effective based on your specific situation.
Myth 6: Supplements can prevent heart disease
Fact: No supplement can replace the benefits of a heart-healthy lifestyle. While some, like omega-3 fatty acids prescribed by a doctor, might offer specific benefits, they’re not a magic solution.
The best way to protect your heart is through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Supplements might help fill small gaps, but they should never be a substitute for eating well, exercising, and managing other risk factors like stress or smoking.
Myth 7: It’s too late to quit smoking—the damage is done
Fact: It’s never too late to quit smoking. Your body starts healing the moment you stop. Within a year of quitting, your risk of a heart attack drops by half. After 10 years, your heart disease risk is about the same as someone who’s never smoked.
No matter how long you’ve been smoking, quitting now will improve your heart health and overall quality of life.
Myth 8: Maintenance medications let you eat whatever you want
Fact: Medications for conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol are vital, but they’re not a free pass to ignore your diet. These drugs work best when paired with a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Think of it this way: your medications are just one tool in protecting your heart. Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with regular exercise, stress management, and sleep, are equally important parts of the equation.
What You Can Do Today
Busting the myths and knowing the facts is just the start towards protecting your heart. Taking action is what truly makes a difference. This Heart Month, why not take a few simple steps to show your heart some love? Here are a few ideas:
• Schedule a checkup. Knowing your numbers (like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar) gives you a snapshot of your heart health.
• Follow your doctor’s advice. Take medications as prescribed and stick to your treatment plan.
• Make small, healthy changes to your diet. Start with easy swaps, like trading sugary drinks for water or choosing whole grains over refined ones.
• Stay active. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, gardening, or a daily walk.
• Learn how to quit smoking. It’s never too late to improve your heart health by kicking the habit.
Caring for your heart doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, consistent efforts can lead to big results. Use this Heart Month as your starting point for better heart health.
References:
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/10-myths-about-heart-disease
• https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/top-10-myths-about-cardiovascular-disease
• https://medicalxpress.com/news/2019-03-heart-increasingly-common-young-adults.html
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/heart-disease-differences-in-men-and-women
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6206467/
• https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/risk-factors/index.html
• https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000094.html
• https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/understand-your-risks-to-prevent-a-heart-attack