In an age where social media advice often replaces medical consultation, misinformation about common diseases has become a growing concern. From misleading posts on fever treatment to misconceptions about heart attacks or diabetes, these half-truths can quietly put one’s health at risk. To address these widespread beliefs, Dr. Sudhir Kumar, MD, a senior neurologist at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, shared an informative post on X, debunking several myths that many people still consider facts. His detailed clarification offers valuable insight into how small misunderstandings can have major health consequences if left uncorrected.
Stroke Is Not Limited to the Elderly
One of the most common myths, Dr. Kumar noted, is that strokes affect only older adults. He explained that strokes can occur even in people in their 30s or 40s, particularly among those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking habits. Ignoring these risk factors at a younger age can lead to life-threatening events that could otherwise be prevented with regular checkups and a healthy lifestyle.
Heart Attacks Aren’t Always Dramatic
Contrary to popular belief, not all heart attacks come with severe chest pain. Dr. Kumar pointed out that some may be “silent,” causing only mild discomfort or vague symptoms. This is especially true for women and people with diabetes. Subtle warning signs should never be ignored, as early medical attention can save lives.
Fever Isn’t Always the Enemy
Many believe that fever must be reduced immediately, but Dr. Kumar explained that fever is a natural defense mechanism. It helps the body fight infections. Unless it is extremely high or causing major discomfort, it does not require aggressive treatment.
Antibiotics Don’t Work for Viral Infections
Dr. Kumar emphasized that antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like the common cold or flu. Taking them unnecessarily can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making future bacterial infections harder to treat.
High Blood Pressure Has No Warning Signs
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” for a reason. Dr. Kumar cautioned that hypertension rarely shows symptoms. Regular blood pressure checks are vital to detect and manage the condition before it leads to heart disease or stroke.
Sugar Alone Doesn’t Cause Diabetes
A frequent misconception is that eating sweets directly causes diabetes. Dr. Kumar clarified that type 2 diabetes develops due to insulin resistance, genetic predisposition, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. However, consuming excessive sugar can worsen blood sugar control in those already at risk.
Sunscreen Is Necessary Every Day
According to Dr. Kumar, sunscreen should not be limited to sunny days. Harmful ultraviolet rays can damage the skin even when it’s cloudy. Daily use of sunscreen is crucial for long-term skin health and cancer prevention.
Cancer Isn’t Always Genetic
While family history can increase the risk, Dr. Kumar explained that most cancers result from lifestyle and environmental factors such as tobacco use, poor diet, and pollution exposure. Healthy habits and regular screenings remain key to prevention.
Don’t Stop Medicines Too Soon
Many patients stop their medications as soon as they start feeling better. Dr. Kumar warned that this can lead to relapse or complications, particularly in conditions like hypertension or infections treated with antibiotics. Medicines should only be discontinued under a doctor’s advice.
Mental Health Issues Are Not a Sign of Weakness
Addressing the stigma around mental health, Dr. Kumar said that conditions like anxiety and depression are medical issues, not personal failings. Seeking help demonstrates courage and self-awareness, not weakness.
Dr. Kumar’s post serves as an important reminder that health myths, though common, can be dangerous. Relying on credible medical advice and regular consultations with healthcare professionals remains the best way to safeguard one’s health.
Stroke Is Not Limited to the Elderly
One of the most common myths, Dr. Kumar noted, is that strokes affect only older adults. He explained that strokes can occur even in people in their 30s or 40s, particularly among those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking habits. Ignoring these risk factors at a younger age can lead to life-threatening events that could otherwise be prevented with regular checkups and a healthy lifestyle.
Heart Attacks Aren’t Always Dramatic
Contrary to popular belief, not all heart attacks come with severe chest pain. Dr. Kumar pointed out that some may be “silent,” causing only mild discomfort or vague symptoms. This is especially true for women and people with diabetes. Subtle warning signs should never be ignored, as early medical attention can save lives.
Fever Isn’t Always the Enemy
Many believe that fever must be reduced immediately, but Dr. Kumar explained that fever is a natural defense mechanism. It helps the body fight infections. Unless it is extremely high or causing major discomfort, it does not require aggressive treatment.
Antibiotics Don’t Work for Viral Infections
Dr. Kumar emphasized that antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like the common cold or flu. Taking them unnecessarily can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making future bacterial infections harder to treat.
High Blood Pressure Has No Warning Signs
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” for a reason. Dr. Kumar cautioned that hypertension rarely shows symptoms. Regular blood pressure checks are vital to detect and manage the condition before it leads to heart disease or stroke.
Sugar Alone Doesn’t Cause Diabetes
A frequent misconception is that eating sweets directly causes diabetes. Dr. Kumar clarified that type 2 diabetes develops due to insulin resistance, genetic predisposition, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. However, consuming excessive sugar can worsen blood sugar control in those already at risk.
Certain Misconceptions regarding Common diseases
— Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) November 6, 2025
1. Myth: Stroke only happens to the elderly.
✅ Fact: Stroke can occur at any age, even in your 30s or 40s, especially with high BP, diabetes, or smoking.
2. Myth: Heart attacks always cause severe chest pain.
✅ Fact: Some heart…
Sunscreen Is Necessary Every Day
According to Dr. Kumar, sunscreen should not be limited to sunny days. Harmful ultraviolet rays can damage the skin even when it’s cloudy. Daily use of sunscreen is crucial for long-term skin health and cancer prevention.
Cancer Isn’t Always Genetic
While family history can increase the risk, Dr. Kumar explained that most cancers result from lifestyle and environmental factors such as tobacco use, poor diet, and pollution exposure. Healthy habits and regular screenings remain key to prevention.
Don’t Stop Medicines Too Soon
Many patients stop their medications as soon as they start feeling better. Dr. Kumar warned that this can lead to relapse or complications, particularly in conditions like hypertension or infections treated with antibiotics. Medicines should only be discontinued under a doctor’s advice.
Mental Health Issues Are Not a Sign of Weakness
Addressing the stigma around mental health, Dr. Kumar said that conditions like anxiety and depression are medical issues, not personal failings. Seeking help demonstrates courage and self-awareness, not weakness.
Dr. Kumar’s post serves as an important reminder that health myths, though common, can be dangerous. Relying on credible medical advice and regular consultations with healthcare professionals remains the best way to safeguard one’s health.
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