Initially considered a form of pneumonia that primarily affected the lungs, doctors now recognize the COVID-19 virus as having a much more complex impact, with implications for heart health. From inflammation to blood clots, the virus can leave behind lasting health challenges.
The team at CA Heart and Vein Specialists have seen the effect of COVID-19 on health firsthand. For many patients, this virus sparks a domino effect that creates or worsens issues that extend far beyond the initial infection.
At our cardiovascular health center in Huntington Beach, California, cardiovascular physician Majed Chane, MD, is well-equipped to help minimize the impact of COVID-19 on heart health and circulation.
While infections have declined thanks to widespread vaccination, the SARS-Cov2 virus is still around, as is its risk to heart health.
The virus can cause serious heart-related health issues both in the short and long term, including inflammation of the heart muscle, blood clots, and irregular heart rhythms. This can happen in individuals without previous heart issues.
For individuals already managing conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease, COVID-19 can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other severe issues. What’s more, lingering heart strain can continue for months or years, making regular checkups and monitoring essential for maintaining heart health.
Blood clotting issues can lead to problems that range from mild to life-threatening. The virus can cause blood clots to form more easily (hypercoagulability), which raises the risk of clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism), legs (deep vein thrombosis), or arteries.
If you’ve had COVID-19, you may be at a higher risk for clots, particularly if you have risk factors like obesity, smoking, or a history of clotting disorders. Close monitoring can help identify and manage these risks
Your immune system plays a major role in keeping inflammation in check, but COVID-19 can disrupt this balance. The virus can trigger an immune response that remains active and causes persistent, widespread inflammation that affects multiple systems, especially the cardiovascular system.
It puts your heart and blood vessels under extra strain, which is why you may experience fatigue and muscle aches. Additionally, because the heart is under strain, you’re more vulnerable to illness. For individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, the risk of complications increases further.
If you have issues with fatigue and shortness of breath, that can make it challenging to maintain an active lifestyle. Physical activity is essential for cardiovascular health, and when symptoms keep you from getting exercise, it can create a vicious cycle of decreasing endurance and worsening heart health.
Even mild cases can cause you to struggle to regain your previous fitness levels. Working with a health care provider to develop a gradual, structured exercise plan can help you safely rebuild strength and stamina.
Making your health a top priority is vital in the aftermath of COVID-19. With the right support and care, you can address the lingering effects and strengthen your body’s defenses.
Dr. Chane and the rest of our team can help you protect your cardiovascular health and keep your heart as strong as possible over the long term. Contact CA Heart and Vein Specialists today to schedule a visit so you can learn more.
