Recent times have caused a substantial amount of worry and uncertainty around what coronavirus means for heart health and those suffering with heart disease. We spoke to 3 doctors to answer your questions and give you some useful insight to help.
The Doctors
| Dr. Luiza Petre Board Certified New York Cardiologist and Weight Management specialist @luizapetremd |
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| Dr. Lou Vadlamani Interventional Cardiologist and Co-Founder of CardioSolution www.cardiosolution.com |  |
| Dr Bill Code MD, FRCPC, Integrative medicine specialist, Anesthesiology Boards www.DrBillCode.com | |
Q: How does coronavirus affect people with heart disease?
A: The more we understand about coronavirus, we learn that this virus attacks our hearts as well, not only the lungs. 1/4 people admitted to the hospital have evidence of heart damage directly related to the virus. That’s additional stress to those who have underlying medical conditions.
Coronavirus enters the cardiac cells using the same receptors it uses to attack the lungs, creating direct damage on the heart. The respiratory failure also creates additional stress burden on the heart. Those with prior cardiac history have reduced capacity to adapt to increased demands, therefore they incur additional cardiac damage.
Dr. Luiza Petre
Q: What should people with heart disease do to protect themselves from coronavirus?
A: Observing the guidelines issued by health departments such as the CDC are the best things anyone can do. And check local guidelines too, for American citizens IF you have to go out, wear a mask and gloves. Wipe down packages and anything from outside. Wash your hands thoroughly.
Dr. Lou Vadlamani
Q:How do I differentiate coronavirus from heart problems?
A: Differentiating coronavirus and heart problems is somewhat difficult as the two symptoms (shortness of breath and chest pain) overlap differently in each person inevitably. You want to be under the care of a doctor or physician who can advise on the optimal treatment for your specific needs. If you experience these symptoms speak to your healthcare provider immediately.
Dr Bill Code
Q: What should I do if my heart problems get worse during isolation?
A: Medical experts universally agree that if you are over 60 with any comorbidity (the presence of one or more additional conditions co-occurring with a primary condition) at all – stay home and don’t risk exposing yourselves to the virus. However, let this be clear, that anyone experiencing heart attack symptoms during this COVID-19 outbreak should try to contact their physician immediately by whatever means necessary, then call 911 or head directly to the ER. Again, the best thing is to seek professional help. Call your doctor right away, discuss your symptoms, let them decide what the best course of action is.
Dr. Lou Vadlamani
Q: If I have symptoms, do I have to keep taking my (heart) medicine?
A: Never stop your heart medicine unless approved by your doctor.
Dr. Luiza Petre
Q: Why are some people at greater risk from coronavirus?
A: Anyone with prior cardiac history or underlying medical conditions is more vulnerable to getting sick from this virus. Their immune system is weaker and they have less endurance to take the stress of any illness.
Dr. Luiza Petre
Q: How can I improve my immune system?
A: Take daily a good MultiVitamin/Multimineral, 30 mgs Zinc, 200-500 mgs of Magnesium, Vitamin D3- 5,000 ius/day,Vitamin C 500 mgs 4 times per day. Take a quality probiotic especially containing Bifidus. Bifidus is quite depleted in Americans. Eat organic whole foods (will have much less glyphosate) and 6-7 different grains per week instead of just wheat. Aim for 40-50 different whole foods and spices per week. Drink more water. Exercise daily as this helps immune system, do whatever you can.
Dr Bill Code
Staying home and social distancing is more important than ever. Stay safe. Clinicians emphasize that it’s key to pay attention to your heart health and keep blood pressure well-controlled during the coronavirus pandemic. People living with heart disease or stroke are advised to stay home as much as possible to minimize your risk of being exposed to coronavirus.
For Qardio users don’t forget you can send your blood pressure, ECG and heart rate information straight to your doctor without having to leave the house. When it comes to staying connected and monitoring the health of your loved ones Qardio users can find peace of mind through our ‘Friends & Family’ feature.
A simple click in the Qardio App, will allow you to keep your doctor up to date, or track real time health data from your friends and family, including their blood pressure results.
This content is for informational purposes and does not substitute advice provided by your own doctor or health care practitioner.
