Explained: Is COVID responsible for surge in heart attack cases?

Off late several cases of heart attacks, especially among youngsters, have come to the fore. Several studies have also concluded that infections like COVID increase the risk of heart diseases. "ICMR has studied more than 700 cases from 1st October 2021 to 31st March 2023 and they have found that the patients with past COVID history admitted or not, were showing more numbers of death in the age group of 18 to 45 . This was not linked with COVID-19 vaccination but it was linked more with those who had a family history of sudden cardiac death or who were into smoking, who were into binge alcoholic intake or extreme forms of exercise that these people indulge in. The study is yet to be published but it does caution patients whether in COVID they were admitted or not, need to be careful about the incident," says Dr. Rajiv Dang, Senior Director and HOD- Internal Medicine and Medical Director, Max Hospital Gurugram.

Health experts say those with pre-existing heart condition and are unware of it are at a higher risk. "In particular, those with pre-existing heart diseases or risk factors may be more susceptible to heart attack complications brought on by COVID-19. Although the virus does not directly cause heart attacks, it can aggravate conditions including myocarditis, arrhythmias, blood clot development, and inflammation that may increase the risk of having one. Seeking medical assistance promptly is advised if someone exhibits heart attack symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain, particularly if they have had COVID-19," explains Dr. Bimal Chhajer, former consultant at AIIMS & Director, SAAOL Heart Centre, New Delhi.

​Cancer myths are as harmful as the disease is: Misconceptions that delay diagnosis, treatment​

Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, or heart failure, may be at a higher risk of experiencing heart-related complications if they contract COVID-19. Heart valve problems, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leaking), can lead to increased strain on the heart. COVID-19 can worsen these conditions and potentially result in heart failure. Irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular arrhythmias, can be exacerbated by the stress and inflammation caused by COVID-19. This may increase the risk of complications, including blood clots or heart attacks.

Understanding the high risk groups of the disease makes it easier to identify the symptoms and start the diagnosis and treatment. According to Dr. Sanjeev Chaudhary, Director - Department of Cardiology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram, "senior citizens and people above age of 60, people with pre existing medical coniditons such as diabetes, obesity, respiratory disorders, heart disease, or weakened immune systems—should be more carefull as they are more vulnerable, kids and children with low immunity and underlying medical issues, Pregnant women are some people who needs to be extra careful and protect themselves as much as they can."


"Caretakers, and healthcare professionals who frequently interact with the public or infected people should take safety measures to safeguard both themselves and the people they are responsible for," says Dr. Chhajer.

"Those with heart issues should carefully manage them by taking their medications as prescribed and consulting a doctor frequently. Ensuring general heart health requires leading a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, frequent exercise, enough sleep, and stress reduction. It is recommended that anyone having symptoms such as breathlessness or chest pain seek medical assistance immediately, especially if they have had COVID-19 or are at risk," suggests Dr. Chhajer.

For Dr. Chaudhary, the primary precaution against this alarming trend is to stay safe from COVID. "Precautions include a number of steps – primarily getting vaccinated and it is highly recommended to take booster dose if anybody is left for it, carrying and wearing masks whenever we step outside, maintaining proper self-hygiene, physical distancing, regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces, minimizing close contact with high-risk individuals , regular monitoring if symptoms are being noticed, eating a healthy well-balanced diet, leading a healthy lifestyle and exercising regularly etc.," Dr. Chaudhary recommends.