Yes, according to a report from www.heart.org, the risk of heart disease and stroke can remain elevated for several years after a COVID-19 infection — even in individuals who had mild symptoms.
Additionally, since the COVID-19 pandemic, the rate of heart-related deaths occurring at home has increased.
A study by Mass General Brigham found that even up to three years after infection, the risk of heart attack, stroke, or premature death may be doubled. This indicates a possible long-term impact of COVID-19 on heart health.
Heart Attacks in India
two main factors are there for the heat attack in India. Lifestyle and Genetic predisposition.
Lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, high stress and smoking are causing heart attacks in India. Not monitoring the cholesterol level, high sugar and high stress , are often linked to unhealthy lifestyle. A significant number of heart attacks are occurring in younger individuals, often linked to these lifestyle choices.
Reasons
1. Lifestyle Factors (Daily Habits That Affect the Heart):
- Unhealthy Diet:
Eating too much oily, fried, salty, or junk food (with bad fats and cholesterol) can block the heart’s blood vessels and lead to heart attacks. - No Exercise:
Not moving much or sitting too long every day can cause weight gain, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol — all of which are bad for the heart. - Too Much Stress:
Being stressed all the time can harm your blood vessels and raise your blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease. - Smoking and Drinking:
Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the chance of clots. Drinking too much alcohol can also increase blood pressure. - Overweight or Obese:
Extra body weight is linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, and bad cholesterol — all of which increase the risk of heart problems.
Precautions to Avoid Cardiac Problems
This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, it’s crucial to monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels and manage any existing health conditions like diabetes.
- Healthy Diet:
- Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
- Limit saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.
- Choose heart-healthy fats like those found in olive oil and fatty fish.
- Reduce intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat.
- Regular Exercise:
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
- Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs or walking during breaks.
- Manage Stress:
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
- Engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
- Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist when needed.
- Avoid Smoking:
- Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease.
- If you smoke, seek help to quit.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption:
- Excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure and triglyceride levels.
- If you drink, do so in moderation.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol:
- Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Consult your doctor about healthy ranges and management strategies.
- Manage Diabetes:
- If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar levels.
- Follow a healthy diet and exercise plan.
- Get Adequate Sleep:
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
- Establish a regular sleep schedule.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight:
- Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart disease.
- Work towards a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
The most effected states with heart attack?
In India, heart attack deaths are not uniform across all states. While a Kolkata-based study indicated a 35% death rate due to heart attacks in West Bengal, other sources suggest that states like Kerala, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu also have high rates. Additionally, Maharashtra has a high number of heart attack deaths, particularly in urban areas.