Although
the COVID-19 virus has not been shown to specifically impact the heart and
chances of the virus causing any new heart problems are low, it does cause a
variety of symptoms that can be problematic for people with underlying heart issues and
potentially weakened immune systems.
If you
have an existing heart condition like coronary artery disease, heart failure or
hypertension, it’s especially important for you to be alert to the facts about
this global pandemic — and what you can do to protect yourself.
Underlying heart conditions and COVID-19
Having
an underlying heart condition does not necessarily put you at increased risk
of acquiring the virus. Like the rest of the world, your
chances of acquiring it are heavily dependent upon your exposure to the virus.
Hence the need for handwashing, social distancing and other critical infection
control measures.
However,
if you have an existing heart condition, you are at increased risk of
facing complications should you acquire COVID-19. According to a bulletin from
the American College of Cardiology, based on early reports, 40% of hospitalized
COVID-19 patients had existing cardiovascular disease or
cerebrovascular disease (which refers to blood flow in the
brain, such as stroke).
Like
most viruses including the seasonal flu, COVID-19 puts increased demands
on the body — and people with heart disease or other heart conditions have less
cardiac reserve to deal with those increased demands. The prevalence of
new heart problems occurring because of the body’s reaction to the
viral syndrome are low,
The
virus mainly affects the lungs by decreasing their ability to take in
oxygen. This makes the heart’s job of pumping oxygenated blood much harder,
especially for a heart that is already not functioning at its highest level.
COVID-19 also increases the amount of stress placed on your heart due to
inflammation as your body tries to fight off the infection.
All of
these stressors can increase your chances of heart attack or other serious
complications.
What you can do to lower your risk
If you
have an existing heart condition, be sure and take every measure to avoid
exposure to the virus. Follow basic infection prevention measures outlined by
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including washing your
hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds, practicing social
distancing and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces with CDC-recommended products.
It is
not unusual to feel anxious during this pandemic, whether you have a chronic
condition or not. But managing your stress levels is a critical step in taking care
of your heart. By taking care of your mind, you’re taking care of your body,
too.
Here
are a few ways you can take care of your heart, minimize feelings of anxiety
and protect yourself from COVID-19 — all at the same time.
·
Talk to your doctor. Don’t be afraid to voice your questions and
concerns about your heart health and COVID-19. Ask your doctor what to do if
you start exhibiting symptoms of the virus. Make sure you feel confident in how
to continue your routine heart care from home and ask your doctor about virtual
care options.
·
Follow a heart-healthy diet, including fresh fruits and
vegetables, foods low in fat and cholesterol and lean sources of protein.
·
Ensure adequate sleep. Try to stick to a routine as much as possible and
aim for the recommended 7-9 hours each night.
·
Exercise daily. Even without access to a gym, you can still find
ways to exercise! Go for a walk or run, pull out your old bicycle from the
garage, give yoga a try or take advantage of free videos online for an effective at-home workout.
·
Meditate. If you’ve never tried meditation, now is the time.
Meditating daily can help lower your stress levels.
·
Lean on your support system. Now more than ever, we need each
other to help cope and find joy in the midst of trials. Reach out to friends
and family — virtually, if necessary — and lean on them for support and
encouragement.
·
Keep occupied with hobbies. Don’t have a hobby? Try one of these.
While
it is important to stay informed regarding COVID-19, it is also important to be
cognizant of how much time you are spending consuming news about the virus.
Find your balance of being informed while maintaining proper distance for the
sake of your mental health.
If you
develop any symptoms of COVID-19 — which vary but can include cough, fever or
shortness of breath — or begin to experience any heart problems, contact your
doctor immediately. In the event of any medical emergency, call 911 or visit
your nearest emergency department.
To read
more expert advice about COVID-19, visit BSWHealth.com.
Melody Sherwood, MD is a cardiologist on the medical staff
at Baylor University Medical Center. She
specializes in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology. View
all posts by Melody Sherwood, MD
Fahmi Farah, MD is a cardiologist on the medical staff
at Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Fort
Worth. View all posts by Fahmi Farah, MD
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