7 Myths Busted About Hypertension By The Best Cardiology Hospital In Ranchi

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a widespread health issue in India. However, there are many myths surrounding this condition that lead to confusion and improper management. In this blog, expert cardiologists from the best hospital in Ranchi — Samford Hospital — have debunked seven common myths about hypertension and straightened out the facts.

Myth 1: Hypertension Only Affects Older People

Fact: While hypertension is more common in older adults, it can affect people of all ages, including young adults and even teenagers. Factors like stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and genetics contribute to high blood pressure at any age. Studies show that urban lifestyles, increased consumption of processed foods, and sedentary habits have led to a rise in hypertension cases among younger Indians.

Myth 2: High Blood Pressure Always Has Symptoms

Fact: Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no noticeable symptoms. Many people do not realize they have high blood pressure until they suffer from complications like heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. The only way to know if you have hypertension is to check your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have risk factors like a family history of hypertension, obesity, or high stress levels.

Myth 3: If You Feel Fine, You Don’t Need to Monitor Blood Pressure

Fact: Since hypertension does not always cause symptoms, feeling fine doesn’t mean your blood pressure is normal. Doctors from the best cardiology hospital in Ranchi — Samford Hospital — suggest regular monitoring to detect high blood pressure early and take necessary steps to manage it. Home blood pressure monitors are affordable and easy to use, making it convenient for people to track their readings.

Myth 4: Hypertension Is Not a Serious Condition

Fact: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and even vision loss. Hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular diseases in India. Managing it properly through lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication can significantly reduce these risks.

Myth 5: Reducing Salt Intake Is Enough to Control Hypertension

Fact: While lowering salt intake helps manage high blood pressure, it is not the only factor to consider. A balanced approach, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, is essential for effective hypertension control. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, is recommended for managing blood pressure.

Myth 6: You Should Stop Taking Medication Once Your Blood Pressure is Normal

Fact: Many people stop taking their prescribed blood pressure medication once their readings are normal, assuming they are “cured.” However, hypertension is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Stopping medication without a doctor’s guidance can lead to dangerous spikes in blood pressure. If lifestyle changes help lower your blood pressure, your doctor may adjust your medication, but it should never be done without medical supervision.

Myth 7: Herbal Remedies and Home Remedies Can Cure Hypertension Completely

Fact: While certain herbal and home remedies, such as garlic, amla (Indian gooseberry), and hibiscus tea, may support blood pressure management, they cannot replace medical treatment. Scientific studies on many herbal remedies are still limited. Relying solely on home remedies without medical supervision can be risky. Always consult a doctor before incorporating herbal treatments into your routine, especially if you are on medication, says our specialist at Samford hospital, one of the best hospitals in Ranchi.

Hypertension and Its Common Causes

Hypertension is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg, and anything above 140/90 mmHg is considered high. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

Common Causes of Hypertension:

  1. Unhealthy Diet — Excess salt intake, processed foods, and high-fat diets contribute to high blood pressure.
  2. Lack of Physical Activity — A sedentary lifestyle weakens the heart and leads to poor circulation.
  3. Obesity — Excess weight puts additional pressure on the heart and arteries.
  4. Stress — Chronic stress can lead to elevated blood pressure levels over time.
  5. Genetics — A family history of hypertension increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
  6. Smoking & Alcohol Consumption — These habits damage blood vessels and elevate blood pressure.
  7. Underlying Health Conditions — Diabetes, kidney disease, and hormonal disorders can contribute to high blood pressure.

Final Thoughts

Hypertension is a manageable condition, but misinformation can prevent people from taking the right steps. Regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, and proper medical guidance from doctors consulting at the best super speciality hospital in Ranchi are crucial for maintaining normal blood pressure. By debunking these myths, we hope more people take hypertension seriously and make informed choices for their health. If you or a loved one has high blood pressure, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for the best management plan.

The Alarming Trend: Why Are More Youngsters Dying of Heart Attacks?

Heart attacks used to be something we worried about in our 50s or later. Not anymore. A disturbing shift is catching the attention of doctors, researchers, and families alike — more people in their 20s and 30s are falling victim to sudden, and sometimes fatal, heart attacks. It’s not just a medical mystery; it’s a wake-up call. At Samford hospital, being one of the best hospitals in Ranchi our experts are scrambling to uncover the cause of this unsettling trend. So, what’s driving this crisis among the young — and how can we stop it?

The Role of Lifestyle Choices

One of the primary factors behind this surge is modern lifestyle choices. Sedentary behavior has become the norm, with many young adults spending hours sitting — whether for work, commuting, or leisure. This lack of physical activity contributes to obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.

Additionally, our specialists at Samford hospital, which is considered as the best cardiology hospital in Ranchi, say that unhealthy eating habits have worsened the situation. Fast food, processed snacks, and sugar-laden beverages dominate many diets, leading to poor cardiovascular health. High cholesterol levels, insulin resistance, and inflammation are direct consequences of poor nutrition and are known triggers for heart disease.

Stress and Mental Health: A Silent Killer

Stress is another significant contributor to the rising heart attack rates among young people. The pressure to succeed professionally, maintain social connections, and manage financial burdens takes a toll on mental health. Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can increase blood pressure, inflammation, and the likelihood of plaque buildup in arteries.

Adding to this, poor mental health is contributing to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and substance abuse, all of which exacerbate heart disease risk.

The Impact of Smoking and Vaping

While cigarette smoking has long been linked to heart disease, the rise of vaping has introduced a new concern. Many young individuals believe vaping is a safer alternative, but research suggests it can still lead to cardiovascular complications. E-cigarettes contain nicotine and other harmful chemicals that cause blood vessel constriction, increased heart rate, and heightened risk of arterial blockages.

The Hidden Dangers of Undiagnosed Conditions

Underlying health conditions also play a role. Many young adults may have undiagnosed high blood pressure, diabetes, or genetic predispositions to heart disease. Often, these conditions go unnoticed until a major cardiac event occurs. Regular medical check-ups at the best super-speciality hospitals in Rachi, like Samford Hospital, must be made mandatory. Awareness of family health history is also crucial in identifying and managing these risks early.

The Gym-Goer Paradox: Why Are Fit Individuals Also at Risk?

A perplexing phenomenon in this trend is the sudden deaths of seemingly healthy, regular gym-goers. Many individuals who maintain an active lifestyle, follow proper diets, and have no apparent health issues have collapsed from fatal cardiac events. This raises questions about overlooked factors that might be at play.

  1. Undiagnosed Heart Conditions: Many young athletes and fitness enthusiasts may have underlying genetic or congenital heart conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or arrhythmias, which can go unnoticed until a sudden cardiac event occurs.
  2. Overtraining and Excessive Strain: Intense workouts, especially high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or extreme weightlifting, can sometimes place excessive strain on the heart. Overexertion without proper recovery can lead to issues like myocardial scarring or an increased risk of arrhythmias.
  3. Use of Performance Enhancers: Some gym-goers resort to supplements, energy drinks, or even steroids to enhance their performance. These substances can elevate heart rate, blood pressure, and arterial stress, increasing the likelihood of a heart attack.
  4. Electrolyte Imbalances and Dehydration: Excessive sweating and inadequate hydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can trigger irregular heart rhythms and increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
  5. Silent Inflammation and Stress Responses: While exercise is beneficial for cardiovascular health, extreme training regimens can sometimes lead to chronic inflammation and elevated stress hormone levels, which can have adverse effects on heart function over time.

Understanding these risks highlights the importance of balanced training, regular medical check-ups, and proper recovery strategies to prevent unexpected heart complications even among the physically fit.

What Can Be Done?

Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach involving individuals, healthcare providers, best super-speciality hospitals in Ranchi, and policymakers. Here are some key steps:

  1. Promoting Heart-Healthy Lifestyles: Young adults need to prioritize regular exercise, balanced diets, and adequate sleep. Simple changes like reducing processed foods, incorporating physical activity, and managing stress can significantly reduce heart attack risks.
  2. Raising Awareness: Public health campaigns should focus on educating young people about early warning signs of heart disease, the importance of regular health check-ups, and the dangers of smoking and vaping.
  3. Mental Health Support: Workplaces and educational institutions should encourage mental health programs and provide resources to help individuals cope with stress in healthier ways.
  4. Routine Health Screenings: Regular medical check-ups, including blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol tests, and diabetes screenings, should become routine for young adults to catch potential risks early.
  5. Post-COVID Heart Health Monitoring: Those who have had COVID-19 should remain vigilant about their heart health and undergo necessary screenings if they experience any unusual symptoms.

Conclusion

The rising incidence of heart attacks among young people is a wake-up call. It underscores the urgent need for lifestyle changes, better health awareness, and early medical interventions. While genetics play a role, the majority of risk factors — poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and smoking — are preventable. As suggested by our cardiac specialist at Samford hospital, which is one of the best hospitals in Ranchi, taking proactive measures, individuals and society as a whole can curb this troubling trend and protect the heart health of future generations.