Hectic modern lifestyles, stress, bad nutrition, hereditary issues and a lack of adequate exercise are among the most common reasons for cardiac ailments. While cardiac conditions are major issues, with early detection and treatment, there is no reason why normal life cannot continue. One of the major reasons why heart-related problems are not detected and diagnosed in the early stage is the many myths and fallacies that result in people not understanding and appreciating the nature of the disease and its symptoms. Knowing what these myths are can help you take action at the right time to prevent a potentially serious problem from turning into a life-threatening one.
- “Only older people suffer from heart disease.”: How you live when you are young affects the risk of cardiac disease you face as you age. More and more people, of all social strata, are now suffering from some form of cardiac disease and many of them are in their 20s and 30s. Plaque buildup leading to clogged arteries can begin even in adolescence and can become progressively worse as time passes. The increasing proliferation of health issues like diabetes, obesity, etc. among the youth adds to the risk of having heart problems at a young age.
- “I do not have any symptoms of high blood pressure so there is nothing to be concerned about.”: High blood pressure is known as the ‘silent killer’ for a reason. There may not be any noticeable symptoms and the condition may only become apparent when it causes a heart attack, stroke, kidney (or other organ) damage, and other serious health conditions. Regular blood pressure tests are the best way to protect yourself.
- “Chest pain will tell me if I am having a heart attack.”: Chest pain often accompanies a heart attack, but despite movies showing people clutching their chest when they have an attack, this is not always the case. Feeling breathless, nauseous or dizzy, and experiencing pain or discomfort in one or both arms, jaw, neck or back when there is no chest pain could also indicate a heart attack.
- “I must be having a heart attack because my heart is beating so rapidly.”: Your heart rate fluctuates depending on the exercise you are doing or the stress you are under. A high heart rate under these circumstances is normal. As you relax, the heart rate will slow. However, if the heart rate increases for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of an arrhythmia which can affect the functioning of the heart.
- “Cardiac disease runs in my family, so it is inevitable that I too will suffer from it”: A family history of heart disease will indeed increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease, but it is not inevitable. Those with a family history of heart issues should consult a cardiologist who will create a plan to reduce the risk to a minimum. Steps will typically include exercising, cholesterol and diet control, blood pressure and weight management, meditation and other stress-reducing techniques, and so on.
Also Read: Minimally Invasive Radiofrequency Ablation for Irregular Heartbeat
- “Taking my diabetes medication will keep me safe from cardiac disease.”: The proper diabetes treatment will reduce the risk of the condition increasing the risk of heart disease. However, controlling blood sugar levels does not remove the risk of heart disease and stroke. The factors that cause the onset of diabetes are also those that increase the risk of cardiac disease. Those with diabetes should discuss the precautions they need to take with a cardiologist, even if diabetes is under control.
- “There is no need to check my cholesterol until I reach middle age.”: Cholesterol testing at a young age can indicate the future risk of high LDL (bad) cholesterol levels developing. In such cases, a cardiologist will often prescribe cholesterol-lowering medication or other actions as preventive measures. This may significantly reduce the risk of high cholesterol developing in later years.
- “Heart failure means the heart stops beating and death is inevitable.”: This is a common misconception. The heart stops beating when there is a cardiac arrest. In that case, a person loses consciousness and normal breathing stops. With heart failure, the heart continues to work, but is unable to pump the full amount of blood the body requires and a person remains conscious. With proper treatment, recovery after a heart attack is possible. Leg pain accompanied by swollen feet and ankles, shortness of breath and persistent coughing and/or wheezing may be early signs of a cardiac condition.
- “After a heart attack, I must rest and avoid exercise.”: Unless your cardiologist says otherwise, moderate exercise is good for you after a heart attack. Research shows that those who exercise regularly and make healthy lifestyle changes after cardiac disease live significantly longer than those who do not.
Regular health and cardiac checkups, understanding the risks, and disregarding the myths that surround the condition are the best forms of protection against cardiac disease. When there is even the slightest suspicion of a cardiac ailment, a cardiologist should be consulted without delay. Examinations and tests will be conducted to see if there is any problem and if so, the correct treatment can be prescribed. As with all medical conditions, the earlier the diagnosis is done and treatment starts, the faster the improvement. Because cardiac issues may be related to other health problems, the best place to go for diagnosis and treatment is a top-level multispecialty hospital. This is where you will have access to the best cardiologists and the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technology and services. If it is found that other health issues are affecting your heart, the medical specializations needed to diagnose and treat these issues will all be available in one place.
It is never too early to start regular testing for cardiac disease. These conditions can be serious, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, there is no need for fear.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can young people get heart disease?
Yes, heart disease isn’t limited to older people. Factors like lifestyle, diet, and genetics can contribute to heart disease even in people in their 20s and 30s.
2. Do you always feel chest pain during a heart attack?
Not necessarily. While chest pain is common, symptoms like breathlessness, nausea, or pain in the arms, neck, or back can also indicate a heart attack.
3. Does high blood pressure always have symptoms?
No, high blood pressure is often a "silent killer" with no visible symptoms. Regular check-ups are essential for early detection and management.
4. If heart disease runs in my family, is it unavoidable?
A family history does increase risk, but lifestyle changes, regular exercise, and monitoring by a cardiologist can significantly lower this risk.
5. Is cholesterol testing only necessary after middle age?
Cholesterol testing from a young age helps assess long-term heart disease risk. Early testing and management can reduce the risk of future high cholesterol.
6. Is exercise safe after a heart attack?
In most cases, moderate exercise benefits heart health post-heart attack, but it’s best to follow your cardiologist’s advice.