The Impact of Covid-19 on the Heart

More than 3 years after the start of Covid-19 pandemic, the world is still feeling the effects of the virus. We have all heard of the long term effects of Covid-19. Now, recently released studies have shown a correlation between Covid-19 and its effects on the heart.

A UK study of over 7,500 people with and without pre-existing heart conditions, who caught Covid-19 between March and November 2020 finds the group 40% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease and five times more likely to die during the 18 months afterwards. People who had experienced severe infection were at even higher risk. 

Meanwhile, a US study tracking over 600,000 patients in the United States found that people had a significantly higher risk of developing virtually all heart-related diseases in the year after a Covid infection. According to the same research, people were 1.5 times more likely to have a stroke, nearly twice as likely to have a heart attack and had between 1.6 to 2.4 times the risk of developing different types of arrhythmias. The long term effects are undeniable. 

The good news is that research has shown that people who are vaccinated are about 40-60% less likely to have a heart attack or stroke following a Covid infection than those who are unvaccinated. This may be because vaccinated people are less likely to develop severe Covid, which in turn lowers the risk of many of these heart-related issues. Or the vaccine may help protect the cardiovascular system itself – by reducing the inflammatory effects of Covid, for example.

Managing Your Risk

While occasional episodes of heart palpitations are not of major concern, you should seek medical advice if you are experiencing frequent or prolonged episodes of palpitations, or if you are also experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or dizziness. 

It is also a good idea to mention to your doctor if you had recently had Covid during your regular checkups.

Sources:

CNA Online 23/9/2023

British Heart Foundation 21/3/2023