COVID-19 and Your Heart

Heart-Related Problems From COVID-19

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association took a cardiac MRI of 100 patients who had recently recovered from COVID-19. 78% of them showed heart abnormalities, and 60% had evidence of heart inflammation. As most patients had not required hospitalization, these numbers are particularly alarming. Some of the heart complications that can arise as a result of the virus include:

--Atrial fibrillation: An abnormal heart rhythm that can be caused by all types of infections, both viral and bacterial.

--Myocarditis: Inflammation in the heart tissue that can lead to more serious problems such as abnormal heart rhythms or weakened heart muscle.

--Cardiomyopathy: A weakened heart muscle that is often seen with viruses.

--Bloodclots: Resulting from a hypercoagulable state, in which the blood can clot more easily and can cause heart attacks, stroke and pulmonary embolism.

Symptoms You Should Know

Symptoms that could indicate a heart issue include shortness of breath, either with exertion or rest and particularly when lying flat or waking up at night; chest pain or discomfort; swelling of the ankles, lower extremities or abdomen; and lightheadedness or dizziness.

If you experience symptoms of shortness of breath or chest pain, it’s a good idea to be evaluated in the emergency room. For other symptoms like heart palpitations and lightheadedness or dizziness that are not severe, it’s recommended to call your health care provider for an assessment in their office.

How to Stay Heart Healthy

It’s always important to keep a close eye on your heart, but certainly if you have had COVID-19. Whether you have an underlying heart issue or not, be vigilant in noting the symptoms described above. For those who do have an existing heart condition, continue taking your medications as prescribed and following your doctor’s recommendations for diet and exercise. It is recommended that everyone receives the COVID-19 vaccination, as it can protect against both illness and long-term heart effects.

Barnes-Jewish St. Peters and Progress West Hospitals also offer a free online heart health assessment. Visit BJCStCharlesCounty.org/Heart to learn your heart age and get advice on how you can keep your heart healthy.

Cheryl Hohe, ANP, is a BJC Medical Group nurse practitioner specializing in cardiology. She sees patients at her office at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. For a referral to a cardiologist, call 636.928.WELL.