Risk of severe COVID despite vaccination
COVID-19 cases are on the rise around the world due to the new Omicron sub variants – BA.4 and BA.5. While the number of cases are increasing, there have been fewer cases of severe infections and hospitalisations. The common COVID symptoms have also changed with time, sore throat has become one of the most dominant symptoms now. A new research has found that people with high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing severe COVID infections. High blood pressure is a common health problem that affects millions of people around the world. When your blood pressure levels are not in control, it can put extra strain on your heart.
COVID risks with high BP
Recent research from the American Heart Association (AHA) has found that people with high blood pressure were over twice as likely to experience severe COVID from the Omicron variant than those who have normal blood pressure. What’s surprising is that the high risk stays despite getting fully vaccinated, along with a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccines.
Researchers also found that the vulnerability lies not just with older adults with underlying health conditions. Study’s lead author Joseph E. Ebinger explained, “Breakthrough Omicron infection severe enough to cause hospitalization can happen to an adult of any age, especially if a person has high blood pressure, even if they have no other major chronic disease.”
About the research
The research analyzed adults in Los Angeles between December 2021 and April 2022. The researchers included 912 adults who had received three doses of the mRNA COVID vaccine. They found that 16 percent of all participants required hospitalization.
According to the study statistics, people with high blood pressure were 2.6 times more likely to be hospitalized for severe COVID. Of the 145 hospitalized patients, 125 suffered from hypertension. Older people, or people with other underlying diseases such as kidney diseases are also at a higher risk of severe COVID infection.
Read more: How much should you WALK to reduce your risk of heart disease? Here's what study tells us
So are vaccines ineffective?
As per the findings of the research, even three doses of a vaccine may not succeed in preventing severe COVID-19 that can lead to hospitalization, especially among individuals with blood pressure. However, this does not mean that current vaccines are no longer effective. However, just like other vaccines, the COVID vaccine also needs to be updated to fight the new variants.
Further research is required to to understand the link between high blood pressure and risk of developing a severe COVID infection. In the meantime, it is important to stay vigilant if you experience any COVID related symptom by self-isolating and taking appropriate rest and treatment.
Common COVID symptoms
With passing time and new COVID variants, the top most common symptoms experienced seem to change. Some of the common signs at present include sore throat, continuous cough, high temperature, loss or change in sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches including headache, and having a runny or blocked nose. Gastrointestinal symptoms include diarrhea, loss of appetite and nausea.
Controlling high BP levels
Apart from consulting your doctor for the necessary treatment, high blood pressure can be effectively managed by making appropriate, healthy choices and changes. Make sure you get some exercise daily. You can opt for indoor workouts if you are not comfortable with parks or gyms. Maintain a healthy weight as obesity can put you at risk of several other health complications.
Eat a healthy diet with foods high in fiber, potassium, and low in fats. Include plenty of whole grains, green veggies and colorful fruits in your diet. Remember to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water. Avoid smoking and drinking. Lastly, it's important to regularly monitor your blood pressure levels.
Preventing COVID-19
Here are some basic yet important tips to follow in order to prevent yourself from catching COVID-19 infection in the first place. Maintain a safe distance from others, especially at public spaces or from those who are sick. Wear a mask in public, especially in indoor public spaces. Clean your hands often, especially after coming home from outside, before cooking and before eating. Carry a sanitiser when outside. Get fully vaccinated and follow local guidance about vaccination. Isolate yourself at home if you experience any COVID-related symptoms and contact your doctor for any required treatment.