There are different types of heart conditions that can affect your heart and blood vessels in different ways. Medical studies show that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Although the condition can be deadly, you can prevent it through healthy lifestyle habits in most cases. Your cardiovascular physician Frisco, TX, can help you manage a heart problem so that you can live a quality life when you have the condition. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about heart disease, which include:
Heart diseases only affect older adults
Heart disease can affect you at a younger age. Plaque can start building up in your arteries at a young age, especially if you have diabetes or smoke. Maintaining a good diet and exercising can prevent some heart conditions in your old age. Young people experience obesity which is a risk factor for heart disease. Staying active and avoiding sugary foods is crucial to preventing these conditions.
You should not exercise if you have heart conditions
Exercises help to strengthen your heart muscles and improve blood circulation. Your doctor can guide you on a good exercise plan for your problem. You can begin with light activities like walking and gradually get too vigorous to improve your condition. Physical activities will help manage your heart disease and boost your physical and mental wellness.
Heart failure means your heart has stopped beating
Cardiac arrest is the condition where your heart stops beating. Heart failure is when your heart does not function normally, and it has difficulties pumping blood all over your body. You may experience shortness of breath, swelling in your ankles or feet, and sleeping difficulties. These symptoms result from ineffective blood circulation in your body, but the condition is treatable.
You cannot prevent heart disease if it runs in your family
You are at higher risk of developing a heart condition if your family has a history of heart disease. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce the risks. Controlling your cholesterol, eating healthy, managing blood pressure, controlling blood sugar, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can help prevent heart problems.
Heart disease only affects men
Heart conditions can affect anyone at any age. Heart disease develops in just as many women as in men. Since 1984, more women than men have been dying from heart problems. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women over sixty-five years. Regardless of your gender, you should visit your doctor for a heart examination, checking cholesterol levels and blood pressure to take the required actions.
Vitamins prevent heart disease
Vitamins taken at the proper doses cannot be harmful to your heart health, but there is no proof that vitamin supplementation prevents heart conditions. They cannot replace a healthy diet and regular exercise to prevent heart problems. Although your doctor recommends vitamins in your balanced diet, it does not mean it helps prevent cardiovascular problems.
Eating a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, stopping smoking, avoiding alcohol, and managing your stress help manage and prevent heart conditions. Despite observing all those preventive measures, you can still develop heart conditions. Schedule an appointment at Prime Heart and Vascular to treat and manage your heart condition.
