Truth about heart diseases: 5 common misconceptions about heart health

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are among the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of death across the world. These conditions can damage arteries, strain the heart, and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The conversation around heart disease is full of myths that can be just as harmful. “It’s not just the disease. It’s the false information that puts lives in danger,” says Dr M Sudhakar Rao, Consultant Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur, Bengaluru. “Believing you’re too young, too healthy, or too symptom-free can be a costly mistake,” he adds.

Many people assume heart disease is something that happens to older or maybe unfit people. “But in India, 40 percent of heart attacks occur in people under 55. Plaque can begin forming in arteries from adolescence. High stress, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits make younger people more vulnerable than ever. Ignoring early signs or skipping check-ups because of age-related assumptions can delay critical diagnosis,” says Dr Rao.

Also read | What types of heart disease are there and how these 5 foods can combat them

Hypertension often has no symptoms but can lead to stroke, heart failure, or kidney damage (Image: Canva)

Cardiovascular disease, he says, is becoming more common in people in their 30s and even late 20s. “Making routine screening and positive lifestyle changes is essential, no matter how young or symptom-free you feel,” he adds.

Dr Rao shares 5 myths about heart health, and debunks them with facts:

• Myth: I’m too young to worry about heart disease

Fact: 40 percent of heart attacks in India happen to younger people. Plaque build-up can start as early as your teens—heart health isn't just an old person’s problem.

• Myth: I’ll feel it if I have high blood pressure

Fact: Hypertension often has no symptoms but can lead to stroke, heart failure, or kidney damage. Everyone over 20 should check their blood pressure annually.

Also read | Early signs of heart disease: These 5 warning symptoms could indicate serious cardiovascular issues

• Myth: Chest pain is the only sign of a heart attack

Fact: Many people, especially women and diabetics, may experience atypical symptoms like arm pain, sweating, dizziness or breathlessness, with no chest pain at all.

• Myth: Heart attack and cardiac arrest are the same

Fact: A heart attack is a blockage in the arteries; cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops. One can lead to the other, but they are different emergencies.

• Myth: Life stops after a heart attack or angioplasty

Fact: You can return to normal activities, with proper guidance. Moderate exercise, 150 minutes weekly, and rehab support may help improve life expectancy and quality post-event.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.