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In some cases, coronavirus infection can cause pericarditis, an inflammation of the sac-like membrane that contains the heart. COVID-19 can also cause myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle.
Both pericarditis and myocarditis
The researchers
This article explores post-COVID-19 heart inflammation, including symptoms and treatments.
Yes, COVID-19 is associated with inflammation of the heart, specifically pericarditis and myocarditis.
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However, not all studies have found myocarditis to be this common.a
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The virus that causes COVID-19 can directly attack heart cells, causing inflammation. Immune responses to viruses can also cause inflammation.
As part of the long-term coronavirus pandemic
Heart inflammation after COVID-19 can occur on its own or as part of a series of symptoms that persist for weeks to months after the initial infection, known as chronic infection. It may also occur in parts.
Click here to learn more about the long-lasting coronavirus infection.
In addition to inflammation of the heart muscle and lining, COVID-19 can cause or worsen a variety of heart problems, including:
The 2023 study followed a group of more than 7,500 people who developed coronavirus infection in 2020. The authors noted that these people were more likely to develop heart disease over the next 18 months than those who did not develop COVID-19 infection.
Research into the long-term effects of COVID-19 on heart health is ongoing.
Symptoms of myocarditis and pericarditis can range from mild to life-threatening.
Symptoms of myocarditis
Symptoms of myocarditis include:
Symptoms of pericarditis
In the case of pericarditis, the main symptom is chest pain.
The pain is usually located in the center of the chest, behind the sternum, but may spread throughout the chest. For some people, the pain increases when they breathe in, and the pain is relieved when they lean forward.
Diagnosis of post-COVID-19 cardiac inflammation typically requires a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.
Health professionals can:
- Check the person’s medical history. Your doctor may ask about your experience with COVID-19 and your heart symptoms.
- Perform a physical examination. Doctors evaluate vital signs, listen to heart and lung sounds, and look for signs of fluid retention or inflammation.
- Order blood tests. Blood tests may reveal markers of inflammation and heart damage, such as elevated C-reactive protein, cardiac troponin, and white blood cells.
- An electrocardiogram test will be performed. An electrocardiogram records the heart’s electrical activity and can identify abnormalities or changes that indicate heart inflammation.
- Perform medical image processing. Doctors use an echocardiogram or cardiac MRI to evaluate the structure and function of the heart and to check for pericardial effusion.
Treatment of myocarditis and pericarditis after COVID-19 may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and other factors.
Common treatment approaches include:
- rest: You should rest and limit your physical activity until your doctor determines it is safe to resume exercise.this may not be suitable
3-6 months . - medicine: Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, may help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Doctors may also use colchicine for pericarditis.
- Limit alcohol: It is best for people with myocarditis to not consume more than one alcoholic beverage per day. It’s also best to take steps to support your heart health, such as quitting smoking and monitoring your salt intake, if needed.
- Management of complications: Additional medications or procedures may be required if complications such as irregular heart rhythms or fluid accumulation occur. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for treatment.
Close monitoring by medical professionals is essential to track the patient’s progress and adjust treatment as needed.
The outlook for most people with myocarditis or pericarditis is good.
However, the recovery process is slow and may take several months. During this period, it is important that people:
- get enough rest
- avoid things that worsen symptoms
- Avoid exercising until your doctor says it’s okay
After treatment, you will need regular follow-up visits to make sure your condition is improving. You will also need to continue taking your prescribed medications.
You should contact your doctor if your symptoms return.
COVID-19 can cause heart inflammation, including myocarditis and pericarditis. Although these symptoms are rare overall, they are more common in people who have had COVID-19 than in people who have not.
Myocarditis and pericarditis can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness. These symptoms may also resemble those of a heart attack. If you have any doubts about your condition, it is important to seek immediate medical attention to determine if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
Treatment strategies include rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and pain relief. Recovery may take some time, but most people make a full recovery.
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