In today’s digital age, many people turn to social media for medical advice instead of consulting healthcare professionals. This trend has allowed misconceptions about common health conditions to spread rapidly. Misleading information about fever management, heart attacks, diabetes, and mental health can put individuals at serious risk without them even realising it.Dr Sudhir Kumar, MD, a senior neurologist at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, recently shared a detailed post on X addressing several widespread health myths. His insights emphasise how even small misunderstandings about health can have significant consequences if ignored. By debunking these myths, Dr Kumar highlights the importance of relying on credible medical advice and regular checkups to safeguard overall health.

Common health myths that could silently ruin your long-term health

• Strokes can affect younger adults

A widespread myth is that strokes only occur in older adults. Many people assume they are safe from cerebrovascular events if they are in their 30s or 40s. Dr Kumar explained that this is far from the truth. Strokes can occur at a younger age, especially in individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or a history of smoking.

Early recognition of risk factors is essential. Young adults often ignore routine health checkups, believing they are invincible. This negligence can lead to preventable strokes that carry serious long-term consequences. Dr Kumar recommends regular medical evaluations, maintaining healthy blood pressure, and adopting a balanced diet and exercise routine to reduce stroke risk significantly.

• Heart attacks may not always be obvious

Another common misconception is that heart attacks are always accompanied by severe chest pain. While classic symptoms are well-known, Dr Kumar pointed out that many heart attacks can be “silent” or present with subtle signs such as mild discomfort, fatigue, shortness of breath, or nausea. Women and individuals with diabetes are particularly prone to atypical symptoms.Ignoring these early warning signs can delay medical intervention, increasing the risk of severe heart damage or even death. Dr Kumar advises awareness of these subtle symptoms and seeking immediate medical care if any unusual changes occur in the body.

• Fever is often a helpful response

Many people rush to reduce a fever immediately, fearing it may indicate a severe illness. Dr Kumar clarified that fever is the body’s natural defence mechanism against infections. It stimulates the immune system and creates an environment hostile to pathogens.Unless the fever is dangerously high or causing significant discomfort, aggressive intervention is often unnecessary. Overuse of fever-reducing medications can even interfere with the body’s natural ability to fight infection. Proper hydration, rest, and monitoring of symptoms are usually sufficient for most common infections.

• Antibiotics do not cure viral infections

A major health myth is the belief that antibiotics can treat all types of infections. Dr Kumar emphasised that antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. Viral illnesses, such as the flu or the common cold, do not respond to antibiotics.Misusing antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future bacterial infections harder to treat. This global health concern underscores the importance of using antibiotics responsibly and only under a doctor’s guidance.

• High blood pressure often shows no symptoms

Hypertension is commonly referred to as the “silent killer” because it rarely produces noticeable symptoms. Dr Kumar explained that people may feel perfectly healthy while their blood pressure remains dangerously high.Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial to detect hypertension early and manage it before complications such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney damage arise. Lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, exercise, and stress management, are equally important alongside medical treatment.

• Sugar alone does not cause diabetes

A prevalent misconception is that consuming sugar directly leads to diabetes. Dr Kumar clarified that type 2 diabetes develops primarily due to insulin resistance, genetics, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyle. Excess sugar intake can worsen blood sugar control in those already at risk but is not the sole cause of diabetes.Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity remain the most effective strategies to prevent or manage diabetes. Awareness and moderation are key.

• Sunscreen is essential every day

Many people apply sunscreen only on sunny days, believing clouds block harmful ultraviolet rays. Dr Kumar highlighted that UV rays penetrate through clouds and can cause long-term skin damage, premature ageing, and skin cancer.Daily use of sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin and preventing cumulative UV damage. Choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with adequate SPF and reapplying as needed is a simple yet effective preventative measure.

• Cancer is not always genetic

While family history can influence cancer risk, Dr Kumar explained that most cancers are triggered by lifestyle and environmental factors such as smoking, poor diet, pollution, and prolonged sun exposure.Focusing on healthy habits, regular screenings, and avoiding known carcinogens can dramatically reduce the risk of cancer. Understanding that genetics is just one piece of the puzzle empowers people to take proactive measures for prevention.

• Completing prescribed medications is crucial

Stopping medication prematurely is a frequent error among patients. Dr Kumar warned that discontinuing medicines too soon, even after symptoms improve, can lead to relapse or complications. This applies to treatments for conditions such as hypertension, infections, and chronic illnesses.Medications should always be taken as prescribed, and any changes should be made only under medical supervision. Following treatment protocols ensures full recovery and prevents unnecessary health risks.

• Mental health issues are not a weakness

Mental health remains a highly stigmatized topic in many societies. Dr Kumar emphasised that conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders are medical issues, not personal failings. Seeking professional help demonstrates strength, awareness, and courage.Recognising the importance of mental health alongside physical health promotes overall wellbeing. Open conversations and timely interventions can improve quality of life significantly.Dr Kumar’s post highlights the dangers of common health myths. Believing misinformation from social media or unverified sources can lead to serious consequences. Consulting qualified healthcare professionals, undergoing regular checkups, and following credible medical advice are the most reliable ways to protect one’s health.By understanding the facts and taking proactive steps, individuals can avoid preventable health issues and maintain a higher standard of overall wellbeing.