Debunking Common Myths About Heart Health
Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, affects how your heart works as well as its structure. It’s common and serious, but with so much information out there, it can be hard to know what’s true. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about heart health.
Myth: Heart disease is a “man’s disease.”
Fact: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, claiming more lives than all cancers and chronic lower respiratory diseases combined. In 2021, coronary heart disease (CHD) alone caused 375,476 deaths. Women are increasingly affected, with heart disease causing the deaths of 1 in 3 women, dispelling the notion that this is mostly an issue for men.
Myth: Heart disease symptoms are identical for men and women.
Fact: While common symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath occur in both men and women, women are more likely to experience different symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue and cold sweats. Recognizing these differences is vital for timely treatment, as delays can lead to severe outcomes.
Myth: There are no tests to detect heart disease.
Fact: There are multiple tests available to detect heart disease. Preventive care, like your routine annual physical with your doctor, can reveal critical risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, smoking and family history. If heart disease is in your family, you may be asked to undergo a radiologic test that detects calcium in the arteries surrounding the heart.
Did you know? Annual physical exams and other preventive services are free when you use a Preferred provider.
Myth: Heart failure means the heart has stopped beating.
Fact: Heart failure does not mean that the heart is no longer functioning. Instead, it refers to a condition where the heart muscles or valves are damaged, resulting in reduced efficiency in pumping blood throughout the body. Early intervention and management can significantly improve outcomes for those with heart failure.
Myth: Heart failure is an inevitable part of aging.
Fact: While heart failure is more common among the elderly, it is not an unavoidable consequence of aging. This serious cardiovascular condition can affect individuals of all ages and is often preventable with proactive measures. Regular physical activity, weight management, smoking cessation and a heart-healthy diet can all contribute to reducing the risk. Additionally, managing blood pressure is essential, as uncontrolled hypertension increases the likelihood of heart attack, stroke or heart failure.
Did you know? BCBS FEP fully covers virtual visits for nutritional counseling with a registered dietician who can evaluate your nutritional needs and help you develop personalized meal plans—all from your phone or computer.
Myth: Menopause has no impact on heart disease risk.
Fact: Research shows an increase in cardiac events among women approximately 10 years after menopause. Although the exact reasons remain unclear, decreased estrogen can affect cholesterol balance and artery health, increasing the risk of heart disease. This is why it’s important to closely monitor heart health during and after menopause.
Myth: Eliminating salt entirely is essential for a healthy heart.
Fact: Many people know that sodium, or salt, can increase your risk for high blood pressure and heart disease. But eliminating sodium completely from your diet is not good for your health. Your body needs the right amount of sodium to actually help control blood pressure and make the nerves and muscles work properly.
Myth: Avoiding added salt means avoiding excessive sodium.
Fact: More than 75% of Americans consume too much sodium, and most of it comes from processed foods, not the salt shaker. Poultry, cheese and bread can also have excess sodium. And some over-the-counter medications contain high levels of sodium. Always read nutrition labels and drug labels to know exactly how much sodium you’re getting.
Did you know? The Weight Management Program by Livongo® provides members aged 13 and over who meet body mass index (BMI) criteria with a digital scale and ongoing weight management support, including personalized tools, expert coaching and real-time recommendations.
Steps to keep your heart healthy
Protecting your heart is important, and there are simple steps you can take to stay healthy:
- Schedule regular checkups to understand and monitor your risk factors, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and family history.
- Keep a balanced diet. Incorporate heart-healthy foods, reduce processed foods and moderate your sodium intake.
- Stay active to help strengthen your heart and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
- Manage blood pressure by signing up for our Hypertension Management Program to help monitor your blood pressure numbers at home with a blood pressure monitor at no out-of-pocket cost.*
- Quit smoking to reduce cardiovascular risk. If you’re ready to quit smoking, vaping or using tobacco, we can help you every step of the way. Through the Tobacco Cessation Incentive Program, eligible members can get support and prescription drugs and/or over-the-counter (OTC) tobacco cessation products at no cost.
- Recognize symptoms by being aware of both common and less typical signs of heart disease. There are many ways to get care, but seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise. Keep in mind that all telehealth visits provided by Teladoc Health® are covered with no out-of-pocket cost to you. If your in-network doctor offers phone or video visits, we’ll cover them as well—you’ll pay the same cost share as an in-person visit.
Heart disease is a serious challenge, but with the right information and healthy habits, we can lower the risks. By understanding the facts and making heart-smart choices, everyone can work toward better heart health.
*You must be the contract holder or spouse, 18 or older, to receive this benefit.
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