Busting Heart Health Myths: What You Need to Know
Heart disease is a prevalent and serious condition that affects both men and women, debunking the myth that it solely targets the elderly. It is crucial to dispel the myths about heart health and uncover the facts to promote a better understanding of this life-threatening ailment. By understanding heart diseases, exploring common misconceptions, and presenting accurate information, we can equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to prioritise our heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Understanding Cardiovascular or Heart Disease
Cardiovascular or heart disease refers to problems with the heart and blood vessels as a whole.These issues are frequently caused by atherosclerosis. This condition develops when fat and cholesterol accumulate in the walls of blood vessels (arteries). This buildup is known as plaque. Plaque can narrow blood vessels and cause problems throughout the body over time. A blocked artery can result in a heart attack or stroke.
Types of Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a group of diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels. There are many different types of CVD, but some of the most common include:
Coronary heart disease (CHD): It is the most common type of CVD. It occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries leading to the heart. This can block blood flow to the heart, which can lead to a heart attack.
Heart failure: It occurs when the heart muscle becomes weak or stiff and cannot pump blood effectively. This can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling.
Arrhythmias: These are problems with the heart's electrical system. They can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
Heart valve disease: It occurs when one of the four valves in the heart does not work properly. This can cause blood to leak or flow in the wrong direction.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD): It occurs when the arteries to the legs and feet become narrow due to a buildup of plaque. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs.
High blood pressure (hypertension): It is a condition in which the blood pressure is too high. This can damage the heart and blood vessels, and increase the risk of CVD.
Stroke: It occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. This can be caused by a blood clot or a bleed in the brain. Stroke can cause a variety of symptoms, including paralysis, speech problems, and vision loss.
Congenital heart disease: It is a problem with the heart's structure or function that is present at birth. Congenital heart disease can range from mild to severe and can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.
These are just some of the most common types of CVD. There are many other types of CVD, and each type can have a different set of symptoms. If you are experiencing any symptoms of CVD, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Common Myths About Heart Disease
Myth: Heart disease is for old people.
Fact: Heart disease affects women of all ages. While the risks may increase with age, factors like smoking and overeating can contribute to plaque buildup and clogged arteries later in life. Younger women who smoke and take birth control pills face a higher risk of heart
Myth: Heart disease runs in my family, so there's nothing I can do about it.
Fact: While a family history of heart disease does increase your risk, there are numerous steps you can take to significantly reduce it. Creating an action plan to maintain a healthy heart through lifestyle choices is essential.
Myth: Heart disease doesn't affect fit and healthy women
Fact: Even if you lead an active and healthy lifestyle, your risk for heart disease is not entirely eliminated. Cholesterol levels, eating habits, and smoking can offset the benefits of your fitness routine. Monitoring your cholesterol levels and blood pressure, especially if you have a family history of heart disease, is crucial.
Myth: I don't have any symptoms, I’m safe from cardiovascular disease
Fact: Heart attack symptoms can vary significantly between men and women, leading to misunderstandings. While extreme chest pain is commonly associated with heart attacks, women are more likely to experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, back or jaw pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, lower chest or upper abdomen pain, and extreme fatigue.
Understanding and debunking common heart disease myths is critical for promoting heart health and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. If we are familiar with the various types of cardiovascular diseases, we can recognise symptoms and seek timely medical attention. By prioritising heart health and disseminating accurate information, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions and take proactive steps towards a healthier heart.
Your AsterDM Team
At Aster DM, we understand the importance of prioritising the well-being of individuals with heart attack symptoms. Our cardiovascular department provides specialised care and treatment tailored to meet the unique needs of every patient. Our team of highly trained physicians and medical professionals utilise state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to accurately diagnose and promptly address heart-related concerns.
Also read: A Comprehensive Guide to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI)
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