6 Common Cardiology Myths — Debunked by a Rajkot Heart Specialist
Many people in Rajkot and across Gujarat carry wrong beliefs about heart health. These myths can delay treatment and put lives at risk. Dr. Nikhila Pachani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Backbone Medicity Hospital, Rajkot, recently addressed six of the most common ones.
Myth 1: Young People Don't Get Heart Disease
Not true. Heart disease can affect people in their 20s and 30s. Stress, smoking, tobacco use, diabetes, and a family history of heart problems can all raise the risk at a young age. Never assume youth alone protects your heart.
Myth 2: I Am Active and Slim, So I Don't Need to Worry
Not true. Being slim and physically active is helpful, but it does not rule out hidden risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Thin people can — and do — have heart attacks.
Myth 3: No Cholesterol Symptoms = No Heart Risk
Not true. High cholesterol has no symptoms. You cannot feel it. The only way to know your cholesterol level is through a blood test. Many people discover dangerously high cholesterol only after a cardiac event.
Myth 4: Supari (Tobacco) Makes the Blood Thinner
Not true — and dangerous. Supari and other forms of tobacco actually damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. There is no form of tobacco that is safe for your heart.
Myth 5: Sticky Foods Like Ladyfinger and Banana Will Block My Arteries
Not true. Arteries are not blocked by the texture of food you eat. Artery blockages (atherosclerosis) build up over years due to cholesterol, inflammation, smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure — not because of bhindi or kela. These vegetables are actually part of a healthy diet.
Myth 6: A Heart Attack Always Causes Chest Pain
Not true. While chest pain is a common sign, many heart attacks — especially in women and people with diabetes — present with other symptoms such as breathlessness, jaw or arm pain, nausea, sweating, or simply feeling unusually tired. Never ignore these signs.
Why This Matters for Gujarat
These myths are widely believed across Saurashtra and Gujarat. Acting on wrong information — or ignoring early warning signs — can have serious consequences. Heart disease is preventable and treatable when caught early.
If you have concerns about your heart health, please consult a qualified cardiologist for a proper evaluation and personalised guidance.