As we move towards a post-pandemic world, the health complications for COVID-19 survivors continue to emerge. A recent surge in heart attacks among the youth during Garba events has raised concerns about COVID-related complications. Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirmed these concerns, citing an ICMR report that highlights the increase in heart attacks among severe COVID cases, especially affecting the youth population. Experts concur that COVID’s impact on cardiovascular health persists, demanding immediate attention due to ongoing health implications.
In a conversation with Health On Air, leading pulmonologist Prof. GC Khilnani shared his concerns regarding recent reports of heart attacks, especially among the youth. “Long COVID contributes to an increased incidence of heart attacks, coronary heart disease, and digestive disturbances,” said Prof. Khilnani.
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Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition in which individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 continue to experience lingering and sometimes debilitating symptoms for an extended period.
In response to these observations, Dr. Khilnani advised caution, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart ailments, or those taking medication.
He said, “Susceptible individuals should avoid overexertion, especially after heavy meals, as it increases the risk of stress on the heart. It is crucial to heed these warnings as the world grapples with the enduring consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
In a span of 24 hours, at least 10 heart attack deaths were reported at garba events across Gujarat in September this year. The youngest victim, Veer Shah, 17, was playing garba on Oct 22 in Kapadvanj town of Kheda district when he suddenly fell, and his nose began bleeding. He was declared dead upon reaching the hospital, with a heart attack being the cause of his untimely demise.
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During his recent visit to Gujarat on Oct 30, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya reportedly said that people with a history of COVID-19 should avoid overexerting themselves. Citing an ICMR study, he said that individuals who have suffered from severe COVID should refrain from strenuous exercise or excessive work for 1 to 2 years to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
Prof. Khilnani noted that a significant number of people have shown prolonged symptoms even two years after COVID-19 infection, similar to the case of MERS infection.
“Fatigue, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances are some common problems that several patients have reported. These symptoms were observed not only in COVID-19 cases but were also seen during the MERS outbreak, where 40% of those infected still experienced fatigue three years post-infection.”
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory infection caused by Middle East respiratory syndrome–related coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Major outbreaks of MERS occurred in South Korea in 2015 and in Saudi Arabia in 2018.
Dr. Khilnani also highlighted the long-term effects of COVID-19 on patients with lung ailments. “The lung’s condition is another major concern for survivors, with some patients who had severe pneumonia and required oxygen experiencing lung fibrosis, leading to shortness of breath and making simple activities like climbing stairs arduous,” he said.
He further noted that symptoms of long COVID extend beyond the respiratory system. “Patients may encounter problems like indigestion, loss of appetite, bowel issues, and cognitive impairments, commonly referred to as “brain fog”.
