Some patients across the world who beat Covid over the past year have continued to show long-term symptoms. This is being called as ‘Long Covid’.
Many of these patients have complained of palpitations, dizziness, chest pain and shortness of breath long after they recovered from Covid. Many patients feel that they have heart related medical complaints after Covid.
Research on Heart Problems After COVID-19.
Research shows that there is still a lot to learn about lasting heart effects on people who have had COVID-19. In some cases, patients are left with signs of heart damage that may call for continued monitoring.
The Covid-19 disease can cause damage to heart muscle and affect its functioning. Researchers are still studying this but there are studies that show that the cells in the heart have angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors. These ACE-2 receptors are known to be the ones where coronavirus attaches itself before entering the cells. The disease is also shown to cause inflammation in the body, including heart.
Coronavirus infection also affects the inner surfaces of veins and arteries, which can cause blood vessel inflammation, damage to very small vessels and blood clots, all of which can compromise blood flow to the heart or other parts of the body.
What to do in case you have a symptom
Any of the symptoms a post-Covid patient feels need not directly be linked to a heart problem. The patient should consult a doctor, or a cardiologist to check the symptoms and get the required medical attention.