PROVIDER’S SPOTLIGHT
BUSTING MYTHS ABOUT HEART HEALTH
TRUE OR FALSE
Your heart is responsible for supplying blood to all parts of your body. When your heart is not functioning to its fullest extent, it can cause a number of problems. Below we will be busting myths about heart disease so you are better prepared to take preventative measures against it!
1
If you have heart disease, resting is the best thing you can do.
2
If you are a longtime smoker, quitting won’t decrease your chances of heart disease.
FALSE. Heart disease can be
FALSE. No matter how long you
different for everyone, and it is important to talk to your doctor about what is best for you. In most cases, a sedentary lifestyle can increase your chances of blood clots in the legs, which can worsen your health, according to Harvard Health.
have smoked, the health benefits of quitting begin as soon as you quit. One year after quitting, your risk of heart attack decreases by 50%, according to Harvard Health. In 10 years, it will be as if you had never smoked before.
What you can do: Talk to your doctor about what fitness plan works best for you. Just walking 10 minutes a day can improve your heart health, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).
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What you can do: Seek help. Quitting is not easy and may require help such as classes, smoking cessation, medication, nicotine gum and more. Always tell your doctor if you are having an issue stopping, your provider may have some helpful tips or suggestions.
