Any kind of chronic illness is frightening. Unfortunately, in the medical world, fear of illness tends to generate misconceptions about its symptoms, prevalence, and treatment. When it comes to cardiovascular disease, such myths and rumors abound.
Any kind of heart condition can be serious. In fact, about 610,000 people die of heart disease in the U.S. every year. Educating others with medically accurate information about cardiovascular conditions is an important step toward disease prevention.
Join the cause, and get the facts straight about heart disease and other conditions. Here are four myths about cardiovascular health that simply aren’t true:
1. “I’m Too Young to Worry About Heart Health”
Though conditions like heart attacks and high blood pressure are more common among older populations, anyone at any age can face heart-related health concerns. Some cardiovascular issues, like high blood pressure, can be symptomless but still land you in the heart hospital. As a younger adult, regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are crucial to maintaining heart health for years to come.
2. “My Family Has A History, So There’s Nothing I Can Do”
Any heart surgeon or cardiologist will vehemently recommend that individuals with a family history take more action to protect their heart health, not less. If your parents, siblings, or grandparents have had any cardiovascular disease, your own risk could be higher. Lower your chances of experiencing the same condition by taking preventative steps. A good diet, plenty of exercise, and quitting smoking are all good ways to stay healthy and out of the heart hospital.
3. “If I Have Heart Disease, I Should Take It Easy”
Nope! Though you probably should avoid running or lifting weights for a while after hip replacement, the same isn’t always true for cardiac conditions and heart surgery. Get moving as soon as possible with a doctor-approved exercise plan to help your heart muscle regain its strength.
4. “Heart Disease is A Man’s Problem. As A Woman, I’m Safe”
Heart disease is actually the leading killer for men and women over the age of 65. As such, protecting heart health is just as important for women as it is for men. Talk to female health professionals at your women’s clinic or heart hospital to learn more about how cardiovascular diseases uniquely impact women’s health.
Heart conditions are no joke, and unfortunately, heart disease ends hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Luckily, healthy habits can help lower nearly anyone’s risk for cardiovascular conditions. Don’t believe these four common myths to better protect your heart health.