COVID-19 and the Heart: How to Know If You Have Cardiac Complications

The lung-related complications of COVID-19 have made this virus fatal for far too many. But the more we learn about COVID-19, the more we understand that the damage doesn’t end there, unfortunately.

Studies show that between 20-40% of people diagnosed with severe COVID-19 will also have heart problems as a result of the virus. “That’s a pretty huge range,” admits cardiologist James Bergin, MD. But the fact is, until we get more time to study the virus, we don’t have all of the answers. 

Q&A: How COVID-19 Affects the Heart

Here’s what we do know about COVID-19 and its impact on the heart.

What is the immediate impact of the virus on the heart?

Similar to other viruses like the flu, COVID-19 can cause a condition called viral myocarditis. This may occur if the virus directly infects the heart. Or the immune system can go into overdrive and cause inflammation throughout the body, including the heart.

This inflammation weakens the heart muscle. As a result, you might experience:

• Heart failure — the inability of the heart to effectively pump blood to the rest of the body. This chronic condition may require medication or a device like a pacemaker.

• Rhythm abnormality — an irregular heartbeat caused by faulty electrical signals in the top or bottom of the heart. 

• Mitral or aortic valve regurgitation — when the heart weakens, the valves may not close tightly enough, so they allow blood to flow backwards into the heart.

• Thrombosis — a blood clot within the heart. If a blood clot travels from the heart to the lungs, it can be fatal.

• Pericardial effusion — when fluid around the heart compresses the muscle and prevents it from filling and pumping normally.

Who is at risk for heart damage from COVID-19?

This is one of those questions we just don’t have the answer to. “We don’t know why some people have heart involvement and others don’t,” says Bergin. “It’s a roll of the dice at this point.”

Why is COVID-19 threatening for people with heart disease?

Experts know that if you already have heart disease, you’re more likely to have complications should you get COVID-19. “If your heart is already compromised or injured, then you’re starting off on a bad foot,” says Bergin. “You don’t have any reserves, so you’re more likely to have an adverse reaction or die from the virus.”

This is why it’s critical for those who have heart disease to take additional precautions to avoid being infected. 

What are the symptoms of heart problems from COVID-19?

If you test positive for COVID-19, it’s important to pay close attention to how your body is responding. Symptoms of heart problems from COVID-19 vary, but may include:

• Heart palpitations or a racing heart
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

Should you experience any of the symptoms above, no matter how mild, contact your doctor or visit the nearest emergency room. Delaying care may put you at an increased risk for heart attack and stroke.