COVID-19 risks to the heart
New information about the specific risks of COVID-19 to those with cardiovascular issues has been released recently. Forty percent of patients hospitalized early in the COVID-19 outbreak had cardiovascular disease or cerebrovascular disease (stroke), according to the American Heart Association. National Institutes of Health recently confirmed that pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cardiovascular risk factors enhance vulnerability to COVID-19. NIH went on to report that COVID-19 can worsen underlying CVD and even precipitate new cardiac complications. Also, the American College of Cardiology (ACC) stated last week that myocardial injury is present in more than a quarter of critical cases.
Specific cardiovascular issues
COVID-19 targets the respiratory system. The respiratory system is vitally important to the function of the heart and all cardiovascular functions. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and coronary heart disease among people over the age of sixty-five both increase the risk of COVID-19 infection. The symptoms are also likely to be more severe.
AHA states that arterial plaque buildup, known as coronary artery disease, exacerbates the risk of COVID-19. In cases where the patient is over sixty-five, the build-up of plaque in arteries has progressed slowly over time. Even without the hindrance of the virus, the unwanted material in the arteries makes the heart work harder to get the blood they carry. The strain on the heart can cause arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) or heart failure.
The evidence also points to stroke survivors as high risk for contracting COVID-19. AHA states that the probability of complications and more severe symptoms increases with stroke.
Maintain preventative cardiovascular practices
After high blood pressure is diagnosed or someone has had a heart attack or stroke, certain lifestyle and medical practices reduce the chances that they will happen again. The importance of maintaining these preventative measures cannot be overstated during the current pandemic. There are some additional things to consider during the COVID-19 presence, as well.
It is important to continue to take prescribed medications. A physician should be consulted if there are any questions about the medications. All prescriptions should be filled and up to date. During social distancing, many pharmacies and other medical outlets will deliver products to customers.
Caution should be taken regarding over-the-counter medicine that could increase blood pressure. Certain decongestants and pain relievers can have this effect.
Since alcohol and caffeine both raise blood pressure, they should be avoided, especially if a person has been diagnosed with hypertension or has had a stroke. Other substances to watch may not be so obvious. They include certain natural and herbal supplements. Some of them, including licorice, can increase blood pressure.
It is important to keep any follow-up appointments with physicians. Virtual appointments may be a possibility, as well as telephone conferences. Additionally, if a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke should occur, 911 should be called immediately. Emergency symptoms for heart attacks include pain in the chest, arms or jaw. Shortness of breath, a cold sweat and nausea are also symptoms. Stroke symptoms include a drooping of one side of the face, speech difficulty or weakness in the arms.
Since stress impedes cardiovascular health, avoiding it is especially important now. Proper rest, healthy eating and prescribed exercise routines should be maintained in accordance with social distancing restrictions. Limiting consumption of COVID-19 news limits stress. Reliable sources should be sought, such as the CDC web site for accurate public health information. The address is https://www.coronavirus.gov
The Michigan state hotline phone number is 888-535-6136 and direct e-mail is firstname.lastname@example.org. General information is available online at https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus. Anyone who believes they have any symptoms should contact their physician immediately.
To learn more about heart-related issues regarding COVID-19, log on to vascularhealthclinics.org and visit the General & Interventional Cardiology Institute.
Ask Dr. Haqqani
If you have questions about your cardiovascular health, including heart, blood pressure, stroke lifestyle and other issues, we want to answer them. Please submit your questions to Dr. Haqqani by e-mail at email@example.com.
Dr. Omar P. Haqqani is the chief of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at Vascular Health Clinics in Midland: www.vascularhealthclinics.org