We have learned about the causes of heart attacks and prevention measures. But, there are still some myths about Heart Disease and its risk factors. This list is about the myths and facts related to heart disease.
1. Is Wine Good For Heart?
The most discussed question may be ‘Is Wine good for Heart ?’ And the people believe that wine is good for heart and can be taken as they want. Here is the first myth about the wine and heart disease.
Myth: Wine is good for heart, so we can drink as much as we want
Fact: If you drink wine; do so in moderation. One drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men is moderate quantity of wine consumption. Heavy and regular use of alcohol raises your blood pressure dramatically.
2. I feel Fine
Feeling Fine doesn’t always mean You don’t have BP!
Myth: I feel fine and I don’t have to worry about high BP
Fact: Most of the people with hypertension don’t know they have it or don’t experience typical symptoms. Thus, Lack of symptoms doesn’t mean you don’t have High BP or your BP is under control, regular monitoring is essential
3. Table Salt
Sodium helps maintain normal blood pressure; it regulates your body’s fluid balance.
Myth: I don’t use table salt; obviously my sodium intake is in control
Fact: Controlling sodium intake is more than just putting down salt shakers, upto 75% of sodium we consume is hidden in processed foods like sauce, soups, pre pre-packaged mixes. So check sodium content while buying products.
4. Hypertension Runs in Families
High blood pressure i.e. hypertension is hereditary; but of course, it can be prevented.
Myth: Hypertension runs in families & impossible to prevent it
Fact: People with family history of high BP, have high probability of hypertension. But, lifestyle choices have allowed many people with family history of high BP to avoid it themselves.
5. No Symptoms of Hypertension
Having no symptoms of hypertension doesn’t mean to be carefree always.
Myth: People with high BP have: nervousness, sweating, headache. If they don’t have such symptoms; so naturally they assume that they are good.
Fact: Hypertension is called a silent killer, about 30% of patients with severe hypertension still have no symptoms. You may not be aware that it is damaging your arteries, heart, brain, kidney and other organs slowly. Know your numbers and keep them under control as well.
6. Low Sodium alternatives
Of course, Sea Salt is not a low Sodium alternative.
Myth: I use sea salt instead of regular table salt; when I cook. Is it a low Sodium alternative?
Fact: Chemically sea salt is similar to table salt with 40% sodium. Hence it counts same towards total Sodium consumption ultimately.
7. Stopping Medication
Don’t stop medications abruptly; if you are on high BP.
Myth: I was diagnosed with high BP, but now I have been maintaining lower readings; so I can stop medications.
Fact: Hypertension can be lifelong disease, so do not taper or stop the drug abruptly. Follow your physician or cardiologist advice carefully.
8. Quit Smoking
Lastly, Quitting smoking helps to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Myth: I have smoked for many years, quitting now will not help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Fact: In fact, there are multiple health benefits of quitting smoking. A year after you quit smoking, the risk of heart attack will drop by 50%. And in 10 years, the situation will be the same as if you never smoked. So get help to quit smoking!
Finally, Getting facts on these myths about heart disease will help you to get the true information to keep your heart healthy. If you still need any information or consultation at Elite Heart Clinic or you can Contact Us
