What does COVID do to the heart?

COVID-19 can cause inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), disrupt normal cardiac function, and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks and arrhythmias.

Will my heart rate go back to normal after COVID?

In many cases, yes. However, persistent or excessively high heart rate COVID may indicate underlying cardiac involvement and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Why so many heart attacks after COVID?

COVID-19 can cause inflammation, disrupt blood clotting mechanisms, and directly damage blood vessels and cardiac cells, increasing the risk of heart attacks, particularly in vulnerable individuals.

How do I know if I have myocarditis after COVID?

Symptoms of myocarditis after COVID-19 may include chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, and unexplained fatigue. Diagnostic tests such as cardiac MRI and blood tests can help confirm the presence of myocarditis. If you experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and management.

How Does Covid-19 Affect Your Heart?

Among all the uncertainties that surrounded the COVID-19 pandemic, heart problems after COVID has been one of the major concerns, and there has been one question looming large: ‘How does COVID-19 impact our hearts?’

In today’s blog, we will explain the complex relationship between COVID-19 and the cardiovascular system.

Get ready as we uncover the mysteries, separate fact from fiction, and shed light on the repercussions of this health hazard.

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Can COVID-19 Damage the Heart?

The answer is yes! COVID-19 isn’t just a respiratory virus; it’s a multi-faceted attacker that can cause damage to various organs, including the heart.

Recent studies have revealed a concerning trend, that the individuals infected with the virus are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications, ranging from myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) to arrhythmias, and even heart failure.

How Does COVID-19 Affect Your Heart?

COVID-19 affects the heart by causing widespread inflammation and a strong immune reaction, known as a cytokine storm. This inflammation can directly damage the heart muscle, disrupt normal cardiac function, and weaken the blood vessels, making individuals more prone to events like heart attacks and strokes.

Also, the virus can enter heart cells by attaching themselves to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. This can lead to heart damage as the virus multiplies and disrupts cell function.

COVID & Heart Rate

High heart rate, medically known as tachycardia, is a common symptom of COVID-19 infection. This physiological response is our body trying to cope with the increased metabolic demands that are caused by the virus and combat the occuring inflammation.

However, persistent or excessively high heart rate COVID requires immediate medical evaluation, as they may be a sign of underlying cardiac involvement or autonomic dysfunction.

How Can I Tell If I Have Developed a Heart Problem After COVID-19?

You might develop lasting heart problems after COVID. These could be felt as chest pain, palpitation, trouble breathing, not being able to exercise like before, or feeling tired for no reason.

If you notice any of these signs after having COVID-19, it’s important to visit a cardiologist right away, so that they can evaluate your heart functioning, conduct the required tests, and tailor treatment plans accordingly, to help you feel better.

Can COVID-19 Symptoms Mimic a Heart Attack?

Absolutely. COVID-19 shares several symptoms with a heart attack, including chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, diaphoresis (excessive sweating), and nausea.

Differentiating between the two conditions can be quite challenging, emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical attention to rule out life-threatening cardiac conditions and initiate timely interventions.

Can Having COVID-19 Make an Existing Heart Condition Worse?

People with pre-existing heart problems are at a much higher risk of worsening their heart conditions if they contract COVID-19. The virus can make existing heart issues worse, leading to sudden worsening or serious heart problems after COVID. It’s important to keep a close eye on anyone with heart conditions who gets COVID-19 and to take extra steps to help them stay as healthy as possible.

– Disclaimer –

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.