“Coronavirus is the perfect storm for the heart”: Doctors share why you need to watch out for heart rate spikes post COVID

Covid complications are many and unfortunately most of them are serious. More than 2 years after the epidemic, we have begun to make it a habit to wear masks, keep our hands sanitized, and avoid public gatherings. But the important question is how far have we come to understand the post-Kovid complications?

It is a mistake to assume that once the covid infection has subsided, we are finished with the coronavirus and are safe forever. Covid affects many parts of the body and the effects persist even after infection. This respiratory disease is seen to be cured even after it has affected the lungs, heart and stomach.

“COVID-19 is a perfect storm for the heart – a statement issued by the World Heart Federation (WHF) at the beginning of the epidemic that proved to be true. Covid is a pro-inflammatory condition and can lead to inflammation of the heart that can manifest as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) or pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the heart sac, “said Dr. Prabin P. Sadarmin, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Narayan.

Covid and heartbeat rates

Increased heart rate has been observed in many people after recovery from covid. Normal heart rate varies from 60 to 100; This increase, which leads to a condition called tachycardia, is a cause for concern. In Kovid, many patients have complained of many heart related problems, such as feeling a rapid heartbeat even after recovery.

Tachycardia is a condition in which an increase in heart rate is observed; It can start in the lower chamber of the heart called the ventricle or in the upper chamber called the atria.

Many people after Kovid feel a rapid heartbeat even after light activity. People who worked together for hours before COVID felt a rapid heartbeat after COVID. In such cases the heart rate increases to 95-100 even after doing small physical activity like walking for short distances. In many patients the condition goes away in a short time, but in many cases it lasts for a while. Moreover, for those who have a previous record of heart disease, a fluctuation in heart rate is devastating.

A 2021 research study published in the Lancet found that in the week following a COVID-19 diagnosis, the risk of first heart attack increased three to eight times. The survey, which was performed on 87,000 people, 57% of whom were women, also found that in the following weeks, the risk of blood clots and heart attacks continued to decrease but improved over a month.

Similar observations have been published by the Covid Symptom Study App. The app found that COVID-19 is a cause of irregular and increased heart rate. The app has over 4 million users worldwide.

“Fever and infection increase the heart rate, which in turn increases the heart rate in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia. Blood pressure may drop or spike, which can put more pressure on the heart and increase the need for oxygen.” For damage, especially if the arteries or muscles of the heart are initially unhealthy, “says a report from Harvard Health.

Experts have linked Kovid to heart problems such as myocarditis and pericarditis. “Outcomes are worse for covid patients with heart disease, and 8% to even 62% have reported severe cardiac injury in many studies and have been associated with increased severity of the disease, including mechanical ventilation and mortality,” said Dr. Sadarmin.

“Coronavirus infection also affects the inner surfaces of veins and arteries, which can cause inflammation in blood vessels, damage very small vessels and cause blood clots, all of which can interfere with blood flow to the heart or other parts of the body.” , “The expert explained. John Hopkins.

Complications that may occur due to high heart rate


Secondary tachycardia for cardiac conditions is always malignant and requires rapid treatment. Heart rate can go up to 150-200 beats per minute and if left untreated it can be potentially fatal, “said Dr. Sadarmin, explaining that” with each heartbeat, the heart carries out the basic function of pumping blood to the rest of the body. By The electrical and mechanical systems of the heart are compatible, and with each beat, a certain amount of blood is pumped to the rest of the body. The faster the heart starts beating, the less blood will pump and with the faster heartbeat, the heart stops pumping blood and starts to throb without pumping activity. The blood supply to the brain will be reduced and the patient may experience dizziness. Fall and die. ”

Increased heart rate affects a person’s physical well-being and people with higher heart rate generally do not have good heart disease, said Dr. Sameer Dani, Senior Interventional Cardiologist and Director, Apollo CVHF, Ahmedabad, adding that low heart rate High risk of cardiac disorder. “Fit people like athletes have lower heart rates,” he said.

Warning signal


There are a number of symptoms in people after Kovid. Experts at Johns Hopkins say palpitations, dizziness, chest discomfort, severe fatigue, shortness of breath, and some indications of poor heart health.

It is therefore essential to understand all the symptoms and seek immediate medical attention.

Once the heartbeat exceeds 100 beats per minute, noticeable changes such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and discomfort are visible, Dr. Dani said.

Risk factors to know


One study found that covid patients were 1.7 times more likely to have a cardiovascular disorder, 1.5 times more likely to have a stroke, and 1.7 times more likely to have uncontrolled heart rhythms than the control group.

Read more: 1 out of 20 people from Kovid-19 booster shot is likely to experience this side effect

“Patients who are at risk for heart problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and smokers, are also at higher risk of developing serious heart problems. It is therefore crucial to adequately address these risk factors to reduce the overall risk of cardiac disease, says Dr. Sadarmin and emphasizes regular follow-up with a cardiologist. “The very long-term effects of covid are still unknown,” he said.

Which tests should ideally go for?


Experts say that if you notice any symptoms related to heart problems, get ECHO and ECG tested.

Covering Covid’s hospitalization with a greater focus on heart health, Dr. Sudarmin said, “If you need hospitalization or oxygen therapy for a significant Covid, then when you are fully recovered, for an initial ECG and echo test. You should check with a cardiologist. If you suffer from symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, you should consult your cardiologist. ”

1. What is the normal heart rate?
   The normal resting heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
2. How does covid affect heartbeat rate?
   In many people, covid increases the heart rate which leads to a condition called tachycardia. Experts have linked Kovid to heart problems such as myocarditis and pericarditis.
3. What are the symptoms of covid-induced heart problems?
   Some common symptoms of covid-induced heart disease are palpitations, dizziness, chest discomfort, severe fatigue, and shortness of breath.