Heart Health Myths Busted: Expert Reveals Facts About Heart Disease You Must Know

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the country, yet many of us don’t truly know how healthy our hearts are. It’s a condition often dismissed by young people, with some blaming it on genetics or cultural stereotypes, like fried-food-loving neighbours. But here’s the truth: heart disease is mostly influenced by lifestyle choices, not just weight gain or age.

As we step into the New Year, it’s time to debunk these myths and understand what really puts your heart at risk. Hence, we got in touch with Dr Shantanu Singhal, Consultant Cardiology, Fortis Greater Noida who shares essential tips and insights to help you and your loved ones stay ahead of this life-threatening issue.

FACT: No, it can happen at any age. As early as childhood and adolescence, plaque can start building up which later leads to the clogging of arteries.

FACT: No, it is a silent killer. One may never experience its symptoms, so a regular check-up is necessary. Otherwise if untreated, it may lead to heart attack, stroke, or kidney damage.

3. Myths: One will know when he/she is having a heart attack because he/she will have chest pain.

FACT: A heart attack can occur with or without chest pain. In a few cases, one might not have chest pain; the patient might feel shortness of breath, nausea, chest discomfort, and pain in the jaw, and back. Few might not even get these symptoms, especially diabetic patients. It is necessary to get periodic health check-ups including ECG, Echo & TMT at least, once in 6 months.

4. Myths: Diabetes is controlled so it can’t harm the heart much.

FACT: The risk factors that contribute to diabetes onset like high BP, overweight, and obesity can still lead to heart disease

FACT: No, create a good action plan with your Cardiologist, control cholesterol, and manage BP, sugar, and stress; get good sleep & stop smoking

6. Myths: Need not check cholesterol until middle-aged

FACT: After 18-20 years, regular check-ups should be done to check the traditional risk factors early.

7. Myths: Pain in the legs sign of ageing only, nothing to do with the heart

FACT: Pain could be due to peripheral artery disease (PAD). People who have PAD are at increased risk of heart strokes.

Dr Singhal explains that due to our hectic and couch potato lifestyle, the risk of ailments in young adults is steadily increasing, along with the huge costs of treatment. You must make some lifestyle changes; reducing stress, including exercise and other forms of physical activity and quitting smoking.

You can lower the risk of having a heart attack by following these tips:

- Keeping an active lifestyle and a healthy lifestyle; this includes avoiding food high in cholesterol and high in saturated fats.

- Regularly monitor your blood pressure, assess your cholesterol levels, and engage in consistent activity.

“Damage to your heart from a heart attack can lead to serious consequences, such as heart failure; in serious cases, it can lead to death. Remember, heart disease is preventable. Making the required lifestyle adjustments to help you live longer is never too late,” he said.

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