When you think of heart disease, you may picture an older man with a previous heart attack, high blood pressure and years of smoking history — but that's not the whole story. Even people who seem to be in perfect health can be affected by heart disease. By understanding common misconceptions, you can be better informed about your risk and ready to live heart healthy.
MYTH: HEART DISEASE IS A MAN'S DISEASE.
FACT: Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women.
One in three women die from heart disease, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure and congestive heart failure, according to the American Heart Association.
Women become more at risk for heart disease and heart attacks during menopause. Why? Estrogen helps reduce “bad” low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and relaxes blood vessels for better blood flow. In menopause, women's bodies produce less of this protective hormone.
Women also live about five years longer than men, and the likelihood of experiencing heart conditions grows as they age.
MYTH: I'M NOT OLD ENOUGH TO WORRY ABOUT HEART CONDITIONS.
FACT: Heart attacks are striking more young people than ever, especially women, according to the American Heart Association.
Heart disease can affect all of us, regardless of age, weight or activity level. Factors that increase heart disease risk include:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Tobacco use
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- History of preeclampsia
- Family history
MYTH: I'LL NEVER RECOVER FROM A HEART ATTACK.
FACT: Your recovery largely depends on quick treatment and your commitment to necessary lifestyle adjustments.
The sooner you get treatment, the better. Most heart damage happens within the first two hours of an attack — that's why it's so important to get to a hospital quickly. Your physician will treat your blockage with clot-dissolving drugs, surgery or a balloon angioplasty, a procedure that involves inserting a small balloon into the artery to expand it and allow blood flow to resume.
Once you're home, your medical team will outline helpful lifestyle changes, such as ways to improve your diet and manage stress.
MYTH: HEART DISEASE IS UNPREDICTABLE; THERE'S NO WAY TO KNOW MY RISK.
FACT: Family health history, personal health history and lifestyle all play into your risk of heart disease.
While we can't predict the future, we can look at specific risk factors that increase your chances of developing heart disease. Start with our free, quick online risk assessment from Adventist Health Portland Northwest Regional Heart and Vascular. You'll receive a report detailing your risk level, which can guide the discussion with your provider about what screening and prevention is right for you.
MYTH: IF I HAVE RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE, THERE'S NOTHING I CAN DO.
FACT: It's never too late to take steps for a heart-healthy future!
Talk to your healthcare provider about your particular risk factors and to get the support you need to eat healthier, stop smoking, start exercising, get more rest and manage stress. Even simple changes can have a big impact on your heart health, not to mention your overall feeling of well-being.
