Studies have shown how Covid survivors continue to struggle with the risk of heart failure, blood clots and other heart conditions even after a year into their recovery from the infection. Research shows that around 10-30% of people infected with the coronavirus can develop long-term symptoms and these Covid survivors are 63% more likely to have a heart attack and 52% more likely to have a stroke than other people. People who have recently recovered from Covid therefore need to make appropriate lifestyle changes, take the medications prescribed by their doctor and engage in yoga and light exercise to stave off the risk of heart complications. (Also read: Heart Failure vs Heart Attack; Know the Difference from Experts)
dr Subash Chandra, Chairman and HOD – Cardiology, BLK-Max Heart Center, BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi says Covid survivors are at higher risk of heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, blood clots and inflammatory diseases such as pericarditis and myocarditis .
“The problem is that traditional medical tests used to diagnose heart problems, such as EKG, echocardiography, and other heart tests, often show no abnormalities,” says Dr. chandra However, the cardiologist says it is possible to prevent heart problems in Covid survivors by following certain physical mental health tips.
Kapal Bhati
Simple breathing exercises like diaphragmatic breathing Kapaal Bhati are a good way to improve oxygen levels.
“Anulom Vilom improves the lungs’ capacity to oxygenate blood. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and post-exercise malaise are a warning against engaging in a very rigorous exercise program soon after recovering from Covid. Therefore, slowly resuming exercise is the best way to avoid a serious outcome. ” says Dr. chandra
The right exercises
“Sitting, aerobic and strength exercises mean a very slow return to exercise. Lying down to start before returning to standing is the way you can start cycling with your heart rhythm and vital signs monitored,” says the cardiologist.
Walking and upright aerobic exercise like the treadmill, climbing stairs, and counting steps to 5,000 a day are helpful.
“Home monitoring of heart rate, oxygen levels and blood pressure during exercise ensures you stay safe during exercise,” says the cardiologist, who offers tips on how to exercise safely after recovering from Covid.
medicines and dietary supplements
Medications that depend on the individual heart risk, such as aspirin for blood clots, statins for cholesterol, beta blockers for a fast heartbeat or calcium blockers for high blood pressure and antidiabetics must be taken regularly.
“Lifestyle changes such as slowly building up exercise after recovering from Covid go a long way in ensuring safety and avoiding catastrophic outcomes,” concludes Dr. chandra
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