The pandemic has caused plenty of concern for individuals with underlying illnesses, especially individuals who suffer from heart disease and have a higher risk. In recent studies, it's been revealed that the strength and health of one's heart plays a large role in their body's ability to fight COVID-19.
One study out of Wuhan, China, revealed that 27.8 percent of hospitalized COVID-19 patients suffered heart damage. Additional research has popped up from Europe and the United States that reinforces this connection. Let's look at what that means for patients.
COVID-19 and Heart Disease
In order to maintain oxygenation, the lungs and heart work together. So whenever the lungs are dealing with a respiratory illness such as COVID-19, the heart is highly likely to be affected.
The heart already works hard to pump blood in this scenario, but this becomes even more difficult for an individual who has heart disease. If you're suffering from any type of cardiovascular disease or ailment, it's important to remain diligent in doing everything you can to protect yourself from the virus. Practice social distancing, wear a mask, wash your hands, use hand sanitizer if you can't wash your hands, and perform any other tasks that medical professionals say could help prevent you from getting the coronavirus.
Certain heart patients may likely be at higher risk for contracting the virus and be more vulnerable to the complications the virus comes with. Consequently, the virus has been known to cause vessel and heart damage, which can make any pre-existing heart conditions severely worse.
It's safe to say that older individuals have a higher infection rate because their immune systems tend to be weaker than younger individuals. Given these circumstances, such patients should continue taking any/all medications (as advised by a doctor) and take necessary precautions.
Complications After Infection
The outcomes are significantly more severe for individuals who have high blood pressure or coronary artery disease and are over the age of 65. Essentially, any individual who has underlying conditions should be cautious since the virus will only heighten any complications. This is especially true for individuals who have had a stroke or suffer from heart disease. The virus can slow down blood flow to the brain and heart, which has the potential to damage the heart beyond repair.
For individuals who suffer from congenital heart disease (especially for those who have had no surgical correction to such defects), blood circulation is weak, and the virus can only make matters worse. Individuals who suffer from PAD (peripheral artery disease) face an increased risk if they catch the virus. Why? Well, because any type of heart disease can make COVID-19 significantly more dangerous and more difficult to bounce back from.
Heart Patients and Virus Symptoms
In the event you experience any or all COVID-19 symptoms, it's important to speak with a doctor regardless if you have heart disease or not, but especially if you have heart disease or have recently had surgery performed on your heart. Remaining in excellent health post-surgery and protecting yourself from the virus are essential to keep your heart protected.
