Myths about Heart Disease
There are many misconceptions around heart disease. Here are some other myths that exist.
Heart failure means my heart stops beating?
This is incorrect. When your heart stops beating it is called a cardiac arrest. During a cardiac arrest you become unconscious and your breathing stops. This is when cardiopulmonary resuscitation (chest compressions and mouth to mouth breathing) is started and a defibrillator is used to try to restart the heart.
With heart failure your heart is still working but the pump is not working as effectively. With heart failure you might suffer from fatigue, shortness of breath or ankle swelling If you have heart failure, your energy levels and shortness of breath will improve with an exercise programme. Exercise will also reduce the number of times you have to attend hospital. You will get the greatest benefit from the exercise under a supervised programme combining strength training and aerobic work. The supervised programme means that you will not over or under exercise and you are correctly monitored.
Learn about Heart Attack V Cardiac Arrest
My heart is beating really fast. Am I having a heart attack?
Your heart rate , also known as your pulse, varies greatly throughout the day. If you are exercising it will increase and as you sleep it will slow down. Most of the time a change in your pulse is nothing to worry about. Sometimes it can be a sign of an arrhythmia. This is an irregular heartbeat . When you check your pulse it should beat nice and regularly.
Most arrhythmias are harmless but if you are feeling unwell as a result of it, please contact your doctor.
Learn about atrial fibrillation
Learn about atrial fibrillation
It is important if you have questions about your health that you ask a health care professional. It will relieve any anxiety and ensure that you are on the correct lifestyle and medical management programme.
Karen Cradock, Specialist Cardiac Physiotherapist, Heart 2 Heart
