Myths & facts about heart disease
The words "heart disease" can be intimidating, but understanding the facts can help you take control of your health. Many misconceptions exist about heart disease, leading people to underestimate their risk or ignore warning signs. Whether you’ve been diagnosed or are trying to prevent heart disease, the right information can empower you to make positive changes. Below, we explore some of the most common myths and provide the facts you need to protect your heart.
Myth: Chest pain is the only warning sign of a heart attack.
Fact: Heart attacks can present with subtle symptoms—or none at all.
When most people think of a heart attack, they imagine intense chest pain or pressure. While chest discomfort is a common symptom, it’s not the only one. In fact, many heart attacks occur without any chest pain at all, especially in women, older adults, and people with diabetes.
- Other warning signs of a heart attack include:
- Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, or jaw
- Shortness of breath, even when at rest
- Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting, or cold sweats
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
Because these symptoms can be mistaken for less serious conditions like indigestion or anxiety, many people delay seeking medical attention—sometimes with fatal consequences. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Call 911 immediately. Early treatment can prevent serious damage to your heart and save your life.
Myth: Heart disease runs in my family, so there’s nothing I can do.
Fact: Lifestyle choices play a major role in heart health—even with a family history.
It’s true that genetics can increase your risk for heart disease, but your lifestyle choices have an even greater impact on your heart health. If you have a family history of heart disease, it’s especially important to take preventive measures.
Ways to reduce your risk include:
- Exercising at least 30 minutes most days of the week
- Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Limiting saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
- Quitting smoking—one of the best things you can do for your heart
Even if heart disease runs in your family, it doesn’t mean you are destined to develop it. By making healthy choices today, you can significantly reduce your risk and live a longer, healthier life.
Myth: Heart failure means my heart has stopped working.
Fact: Heart failure means your heart is weaker but still functioning.
Heart failure is a serious condition, but it does not mean your heart has completely stopped beating. Instead, it means your heart is not pumping blood as efficiently as it should. This can cause fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body, leading to symptoms like:
- Shortness of breath, even when lying down
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs
- Fatigue and difficulty performing daily activities
- Frequent nighttime urination
- A persistent cough or wheezing
Heart failure is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with proper treatment. Medications, dietary changes, exercise and medical procedures can help improve heart function and quality of life. If you experience these symptoms, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options.
Myth: A fast heartbeat means I’m having a heart attack.
Fact: A rapid heartbeat can be normal, but persistent palpitations should be checked.
Feeling like your heart is “racing” can be alarming, but in many cases, it’s not a cause for concern. Your heart rate naturally increases with physical activity, stress or even after consuming caffeine. However, if you frequently experience palpitations, an irregular heartbeat, or dizziness, it could be a sign of an arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm).
Some arrhythmias are harmless, while others can increase your risk of stroke or heart failure. If you notice frequent or prolonged episodes of a fast or irregular heartbeat, schedule an appointment with a cardiologist for evaluation.
Myth: Pain in my legs has nothing to do with my heart.
Fact: Leg pain can be an early warning sign of heart disease.
Pain or cramping in your legs, especially while walking, can indicate peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition caused by plaque buildup in the arteries that supply blood to your limbs. PAD is a red flag that you may also have blocked arteries in your heart or brain, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke.
If you experience persistent leg pain, especially if you have diabetes or are a smoker, don’t ignore it. A simple test can determine whether you have PAD, and early treatment can help prevent serious complications.
Myth: As long as I take my medication, diabetes won’t affect my heart.
Fact: Diabetes and heart disease are closely linked—medication alone isn’t enough.
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease compared to those without diabetes. Even if your blood sugar levels are well-controlled with medication, diabetes increases the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and narrowed or blocked arteries.
That’s why managing diabetes involves more than just taking medication. Heart-healthy habits—such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking—are critical for reducing the risk of heart complications.
Myth: Heart disease only affects older people.
Fact: Young adults can also develop heart disease.
While it’s true that heart disease becomes more common with age, it can start developing decades earlier. Factors such as poor diet, obesity, smoking and lack of exercise contribute to early plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart problems at a young age. Even if you’re in your 20s or 30s, now is the time to focus on heart health. Staying active, eating nutritious foods and managing stress can help prevent heart disease before it starts.
Myth: I should avoid exercise after a heart attack.
Fact: Exercise is one of the best ways to recover and strengthen your heart.
After a heart attack, some people are afraid to be active, thinking it will put too much strain on their heart. In reality, exercise is one of the most important parts of recovery. Regular physical activity helps strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, reduce stress and anxiety and lower the risk of future heart problems. Your doctor will help create a safe and gradual exercise plan tailored to your condition. Even small steps—such as walking for a few minutes a day—can have lasting benefits.
