Myths and facts about heart failure

Heart failure means your heart has stopped beating

MYTH: Heart failure doesn’t mean that your heart has stopped beating. Heart failure occurs when your heart muscle or valves have been damaged and so your heart isn’t able to pump blood around your body as well as it should.

Heart failure is serious

FACT: Heart failure is a very serious condition and can shorten your life. However, by working with your doctor and nurse, you can get effective treatments and make changes to your lifestyle that will both ease your symptoms, improve your quality of life and prolong your life.

Heart failure is common

FACT: Currently, we estimate that approx. 1 to 2% of the adult population in developed countries have heart failure, rising to ≥10% among people over 70 years of age.

Heart failure can’t be treated

MYTH: There are many treatments available for heart failure that are very effective at reducing symptoms and delaying the progression of the condition. You should discuss treatment options with your doctor.

If you have heart failure you shouldn’t exercise

MYTH: It’s very important for people with heart failure to exercise. However, it’s also important that you don’t overdo it. The right amount of exercise can help to improve blood flow and alleviate some of your symptoms.

To learn more about exercising with heart failure, click here.

Heart failure is a normal consequence of getting old

MYTH: Heart Failure is ageless and affects all ages. Most people with heart failure are elderly; however, heart failure isn’t necessarily a consequence of age. It’s a serious cardiovascular condition that can often be prevented and greatly helped with available treatments.