The fast spread of the coronavirus has surely prompted the global alarm. From closing borders, global airlines suspending flights to some governments even barring entry to foreign nationals, the outbreak has created serious fear in the minds of the common man. Everyone irrespective of height, weight, body shape has fallen prey to the deadly disease across the globe. Doctors are constantly asking individuals with low immunity to be safe and take necessary precautions. When it comes to patients with heart history, they have been asked to take extra care during this time. We all know that patients suffering from heart diseases are especially vulnerable to respiratory tract infections, including COVID 19.
However, the extent of damage in heart patients is currently uncertain. As per evidence, patients with known cardiovascular disease (CVD) have a CFR of 10.5% in case of a COVID 19 infection. Also, evidence suggests that 16.7% of COVID 19 patients, having CVD, develop abnormal heartbeat while 7.2% of patients get acute cardiac damage. Cases of acute-onset heart failure, heart attack, and other fatal cardiac symptoms have also been reported in COVID 19 patients with CVD. Heart complications in COVID 19 patients are comparable with SARS and MERS patients.
Following precautions are advised for CVD patients to prevent COVID 19:
- Maintain your recommended blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
- Frequently monitor your blood sugar and BP levels to rapidly identify any irregularities and get appropriate treatment adjustments
- Get enough supplies related to your co-morbid testing and medications, in case of an outbreak, for at least 15 days.
- Practice frequent handwashing with soap and water
- Practice good respiratory hygiene by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow, in case of coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching your face, nose, and eyes
- Avoid unwanted travel and socializing
- Stay vaccinated for each available infectious disease
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Consume yoghurt and probiotics for a healthy digestive system
- Sleep for at least 8-9 hours to reduce stress and maintenance of immunity levels
- Avoid crowd exposure and handshaking
- Immediately contact your doctor if you develop any respiratory symptoms such as cold, cough, difficulty in breathing or fever.
- Last but not the least, stay hydrated
