Experts are sounding the alarm about the potential increase in cardiovascular complications as respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and influenza, continue to spread across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that weekly COVID hospitalizations are currently at 32,861, lower than the previous week but similar to levels seen in January 2023. Similarly, there were 14,874 weekly flu hospitalizations, lower than the previous week but comparable to levels seen in November 2023.
Many people may assume that respiratory illnesses only lead to sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory tract infections. However, Dr. Deepak Bhatt, director of Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York City, explains that these infections can also contribute to heart problems through two potential routes. The first pathway occurs when someone becomes severely ill with a high fever or dehydration due to complications from influenza. This can be dangerous for individuals with heart disease or risk factors as it raises their heart rate. Additionally, respiratory infections can cause inflammation, which can lead to the formation of blood clots in plaques within the blood vessels, potentially triggering heart attacks.
The second pathway is rarer but more direct. It involves myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle following a viral infection. Myocarditis can result in abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias) and weaken the heart muscle, leading to cardiomyopathy and affecting the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. In rare cases, myocarditis can even cause heart failure and cardiogenic shock, even in otherwise healthy individuals.
While these conditions are more likely to affect older adults or those with known heart disease or risk factors, there may be individuals who are unaware of their risk. Bhatt explains that not everyone knows they have heart disease because they haven’t experienced any symptoms yet. However, a severe illness like influenza can act as a stressor and reveal the underlying heart disease.
To mitigate the risks, Bhatt recommends that individuals who haven’t been vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (for older adults) should get their shots now. According to CDC data, the uptake of vaccines has been lagging, with only 21.5% of adults aged 18 and older receiving the updated COVID vaccine and 46.7% getting the flu shot. Moreover, only 2.1% of adults aged 60 and older have received the RSV vaccine.
It is crucial for individuals who are sick and experiencing worsening chest pain or shortness of breath to contact their doctor or call 911, regardless of whether they have an underlying condition or risk factors. Bhatt emphasizes that significant discomfort in the chest that worsens rapidly should not be dismissed as a result of a cold, influenza, or COVID-19. Seeking medical assistance promptly is always the right course of action.
In conclusion, as respiratory viruses continue to spread across the US, there is a potential increase in cardiovascular complications. It is essential for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with these infections and take preventive measures such as getting vaccinated. Recognizing the symptoms of heart problems and seeking medical help promptly can save lives and prevent further complications.
