Flu and COVID are sweeping across the country, posing a particular hazard to people at risk for heart disease. These respiratory infections can trigger heart complications from fever, dehydration, and inflammation, according to experts from Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital.
Mount Sinai doctors are seeing an increase in heart problems prompted by respiratory infections, and it’s happening across all age groups – even among young adults in their 20s. Inflammation can prompt heart attacks in people with clogged arteries, and it can also exacerbate symptoms related to heart failure or heart rhythm disorders, doctors said.
“Winter can raise cardiovascular risks in a number of ways, including due to flu season,” according to Dr. Deepak Bhatt, director of the Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital. “People with cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors for heart disease are particularly susceptible to developing cardiac problems if they get really sick from a respiratory infection,” Bhatt said in a hospital news release. “Identifying and controlling cardiovascular risk factors, as well as basic measures to try to prevent infections, are ways to avoid a potential double whammy of a bad infection triggering a heart attack.”
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among U.S. men and women, and nearly half of adults have some type of heart disease. Nearly 700,000 people die every year from heart disease, and eight out of 10 deaths are preventable, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, smoking, and age are all risk factors for heart disease.
RELATED: The Importance of Protecting Yourself and Others From the Flu
Know Your Family History: Understanding your family’s history of heart problems can help you assess your own risk.
Monitor Your Vital Signs: Keep track of your blood pressure, total cholesterol, “good” HDL cholesterol, body-mass index (BMI), and blood sugar levels regularly.
Adopt a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support heart health.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Stick to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men, as excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure and contribute to heart disease.
Quit Smoking and Vaping: Smoking and vaping are major risk factors for heart disease. Seek support to quit these habits if you are a smoker or vaper.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Manage Stress and Mental Health: Stress can contribute to heart problems, so finding healthy ways to manage stress and prioritizing mental health is important.
Recognize Warning Signs: Learn the warning signs of heart attack and stroke, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of them.
“If you get sick and have chest pain or are out of breath, and it’s getting worse — especially if you have an underlying heart condition or risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease—don’t assume it’s not serious or just a viral syndrome,” says Dr. Icilma Fergus, director of cardiovascular disparities for the Mount Sinai Health System. “Consider seeing a health care provider right away, and call 911 if the symptoms of chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath develop,” Fergus adds.
Fergus recommends that people get their appropriate flu and COVID vaccinations to lessen the severity of any infection they might get.
“Viral syndromes are so commonplace that many people aren’t taking these viruses as seriously anymore,” Fergus shares.
Remember, taking care of your heart is crucial, especially during flu and COVID season. By following these tips and seeking prompt medical attention if needed, you can protect yourself and your heart from the risks associated with these respiratory infections.
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