Test Your Heart-Smarts

You most likely don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your heart, but that fist-sized powerhouse deserves some attention, especially when it comes to knowing how to keep it in optimal shape. As February, and American Heart Month, draw to a close we want to take the opportunity to address some commonly believed myths about the heart.

How many of these heart health myths have fooled you?

Myth: No chest pain? No heart attack

Truth: There are a variety of symptoms that can signal a heart attack, and chest pain is only one. “Silent” heart attacks can be preceded by typically unalarming pain that can feel like a strained muscle, heartburn, ulcers, nausea, or the flu. Other symptoms can include lightheadedness, numbness or pain in the arms, fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep issues. Sometimes even leg pain can be related to plaque buildup, as in Peripheral Artery Disease as described here: Peripheral Artery Disease | American Heart Association

Also, men and women can exhibit different heart attack symptoms. Women may experience less-prominent symptoms than men, and may feel squeezing, pressure, pain, or fullness in the center of the chest. Men are more likely to experience “textbook” symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort, although they can also experience pain in other areas such as arms or neck, as well as sweating or a feeling of heartburn.

Myth: I’m too young to have a heart attack

Truth: Nearly half of the adults in the United States have a form of cardiovascular disease, and 4% – 10% of heart attacks occur in people under 45 years old. While some heart attacks in younger people can be attributed to congenital conditions or blood clots, most (about 80%) are related to heart disease.

Myth: I’m protected by my vitamins and supplements

Truth: There are some vitamins and supplements, such as Omega-3, vitamin C, and folic acid, that may support heart health according to studies. However, larger clinical trials are inconclusive. What we can be certain about is that you can’t depend on vitamins to make up for an unhealthy lifestyle. You can more effectively promote heart health by what you eat (lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fish) and what you don’t eat (saturated fats, trans fats, excessive salt and sugar).

Myth: I need to take it easy to avoid overstressing my heart

Truth: Unless your medical provider has advised you to limit your activity, get out there and be active! For most people, a sedentary lifestyle is damaging and does nothing to promote health. In fact, physical activity strengthens the heart, improves blood flow to the brain and other organs, and promotes feelings of well-being.

Be sure to consult your Fountain Hills Medical Center team, or other healthcare professional, when making significant lifestyle decisions, especially if you’re concerned about your heart health or other health issues.

When it comes to being heart-savvy, we want our patients to be well-informed and make smart decisions. Be sure to schedule a medical appointment in Fountain Hills with us, or simply walk in, if you’d like to discuss your heart health, or receive or review medical tests in Fountain Hills.

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