5 Common Myths About Heart Failure

Myth 1: Heart failure means your heart has stopped working.
This is perhaps the most widespread misconception. Heart failure does not mean your heart has stopped beating or that you are having a heart attack. A heart attack is a sudden event caused by a blocked artery, while heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart muscle is weakened or stiff, making it unable to pump blood efficiently throughout the body to meet its needs. Your heart continues to beat, but it needs support to function properly. Early intervention and management are key to improving outcomes for those with heart failure.¹

Myth 2: Heart failure is a normal part of aging.
While heart failure is more common in older adults, it is not an inevitable consequence of getting older. In fact, a significant number of people under the age of 55 have heart failure. The condition can affect individuals of all ages and is often the result of other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or diabetes. Taking proactive measures like maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing blood pressure are essential for reducing the risk of developing heart failure at any age.²,³

Myth 3: If you have heart failure, you shouldn’t exercise.
This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. For many people with heart failure, a carefully planned exercise regimen is crucial for strengthening the heart muscle and improving blood flow. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to determine a safe and appropriate exercise plan. The right amount of physical activity can help alleviate symptoms, improve your quality of life, and slow the progression of the disease. A heart is a muscle, and like any muscle, it benefits from exercise.²,⁴

Myth 4: There is nothing you can do to manage heart failure.
This is a myth that can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, but it’s completely false. Heart failure is a progressive condition, but its severity can often be reduced with careful management. While there is no cure, a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, implanted devices or surgery can effectively manage symptoms and improve your prognosis. With proper self-care, a person with heart failure can live a long, full life. These self-care actions include regularly monitoring weight, limiting fluid intake, cutting down on salt, and keeping active.⁵,⁶

Myth 5: Heart failure only affects men.
Historically, heart disease has often been perceived as a male issue, but heart failure is a serious health threat for both men and women. Heart disease is the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States, and more women die from it each year than men. Heart attack symptoms can also differ between sexes, with women more likely to experience nausea, vomiting, or extreme fatigue in addition to chest pain. It’s crucial to recognize that heart failure impacts everyone and that men and women alike should take proactive steps to protect their heart health.³,⁷