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Knowing and clarifying the most common myths and truths about heart health is the first step in protecting the heart. Learn more!
Cardiovascular diseases represent one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide. However, people know very little about these conditions and how to prevent them. Here we clarify the most common myths and truths about heart health.
Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that cardiovascular pathologies are responsible for more than 17 million deaths on the planet each year. heart health is seen compromised by factors such as obesity, smoking, hypercholesterolemia and sedentary lifestyle.
Heart problems have been known since ancient times and have accompanied humanity during its development. This fact has conditioned the existence of numerous myths about heart health that have been transmitted from generation to generation.
Knowing what is true and what is not is essential to prevent these conditions. Here are 11 myths and truths about it.
1. Heart disease only affects older people
Older age is an important risk factor for the development of cardiovascular conditionssuch as myocardial infarction, high blood pressure, and heart failure. However, cardiomyopathies and valvular pathologies can occur at any time in life.
Similarly, it is key to maintain a healthy lifestyle during youth to reduce the risk of these diseases later. In this sense, it is wrong to think that it is not necessary to take care of the heart while you are young.
2. Heart disease affects men more than women
It is well known that heart problems have a higher incidence in men. Studies affirm that estrogen levels determine that the female sex is less exposed to suffer from these conditions during youth and adult life.
However, in older adults the prevalence in men and women is equal. This is the result of the estrogenic deficit that women suffer before menopause. Hormone replacement therapy can reduce cardiovascular risk.
3. I can’t have high blood pressure if I don’t have symptoms
Arterial hypertension is considered a silent murderer. It usually appears progressively in the body, so as it is established, the body tries to adapt to the change. For this reason, it is common for people not to experience any symptoms that makes them suspect the condition.
Most cases are diagnosed in advanced stages, as a result of disease decompensation or as a result of a fortuitous finding in a routine analysis. In this sense, it is crucial to assess the figures periodically in young people, adults and the elderly.
4. All chest pain is a heart attack
People are often alarmed by feeling any kind of discomfort in the chest. However, chest pain can be caused by a wide variety of causes. Such is the case of problems in the lungs, pleura, pericardium, skin, muscles and joints.
Infarction usually presents as oppressive pain in the center of the chest that spreads to the left shoulder and jaw. This discomfort usually persists for more than 30 minutes and is not relieved by analgesics. In addition, it is accompanied by nausea, sweating, shortness of breath and palpitations.
5. There can be no heart attack without chest pain
This is one of the most common myths about heart health. The presentation of heart attacks is not always the same in all people.
In some women it can manifest itself subtly or with uncharacteristic symptoms, such as pain in the back, neck, or arms. If you suspect a heart attack, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
6. Frights and annoyances can cause a heart attack
Strong emotions and anxiety attacks can precipitate a heart attack in susceptible people. In both cases, blood pressure levels and demands by the body increase, which increases cardiac demand and reduces oxygenation of the heart.
Special care should be taken in the elderly and in patients who have had a heart attack before. Reducing stress levels and anger management therapies play a key role in heart attack prevention.
7. I can’t do any type of exercise after a heart attack
One of the most frequent myths about heart health is that you should not exercise after a heart attack due to the risk of relapses. However, research they suggest that Physical activity is essential in the rehabilitation of heart patients.
Sports sessions should start progressively with low-intensity aerobic exercises, such as walking or jogging. In this way, it is possible to control and improve blood pressure figures, weight, heart function and the risk of recurrence.
Anaerobic weight lifting exercises are not recommended. A specialist should be consulted about the most appropriate movements.
8. Diabetes does not increase the risk of heart problems
diabetes mellitis It is a pathology of high prevalence throughout the world that is usually superimposed on heart problems. Studies affirm that there is a strong evolutionary relationship between suffering from diabetes and developing arterial hypertension in the medium term.
Diabetes itself is a risk factor for heart health. It modifies the vascular dynamics and the needs of the organism.
9. Supplements rich in omega 3 are essential to take care of heart health
Currently, multiple studies affirm that the consumption of omega 3 has important beneficial effects in the prevention of coronary pathologies. However, the main therapeutic guidelines support obtaining this nutrient through diet and to a lesser extent in the form of supplements.
Mediterranean diets, with fish as the main source of protein, are among the best options. Similarly, the consumption of fried marine products should be avoided and an adequate intake of vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains should be emphasized.
10. People with heart disease should avoid eggs.
One of the most popular myths about heart health is that eggs are harmful to people with heart problems. The main argument is that the egg yolk is rich in cholesterol and conditions a greater risk for cardiovascular diseases.
However, research on a large scale have shown that exists a very slight association between egg intake and heart disease. In addition, 1 egg a day helps balance cholesterol levels evil Y well in most people.
11. Coconut oil is the best alternative for heart patients
Coconut oil is recognized in many cultures for its cardioprotective effect. This is due to the contribution of medium chain triglycerides that increase cholesterol levels well or HDL in the blood.
However, this oil contains 4 times higher concentration of saturated fat than butter. For this reason, professionals recommend other options, such as olive or canola oil.
Lifestyle changes are key to protecting your heart health
There are numerous myths about heart health. Some of them are true, while others lack studies and scientific support. Remember to consult a specialist before starting any change in your lifestyle.
In general, eating a balanced diet, practicing at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, avoiding cigarettes and maintaining regular check-ups with a professional are highly valued objectives in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
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