Conversations about COVID-19 and vaccine availability have added another term to our vocabulary: Comorbidity.
Comorbidity is really just a fancy way of saying “underlying health concerns.” In mid-February, it became a qualifier for early vaccine eligibility in New York State. The full list of NYS-approved comorbidities includes a variety of conditions such as diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, and pulmonary disease. Heart disease is also on the list.
Evidence links preexisting heart disease (such as hypertension or coronary artery disease) to an increased likeliness of contracting COVID-19. Unfortunately, as if having COVID doesn’t create enough problems, these are some additional cardiac concerns:
“If you have or have had COVID-19, it’s important to know the stress that puts on your heart could cause further damage.
You should rest for at least a couple of weeks. If you’re an active person, ramp up your activity slowly, don’t dial it all the way up straightaway. Notify a doctor if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations while exercising.
Especially to those who pursue healthy, active lifestyles, I urge you to understand that this is not a time to “push through it.” Even the most elite athletes are not transitioning right from a COVID infection back to Game Day.
My advice: Take a break and slowly ramp it up.”
Emily Battaglia, MD, FACC
Cardiologist , Sisters of Charity Hospital Cardiology Center
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, cardiologists have noticed the following patient trends:
A cardiac event is a medical emergency. If you believe you or someone you love to be having a heart attack or in cardiovascular distress, don’t hesitate to go to the nearest emergency department. The hospital is still the safest place to be.
Find Services at the Sisters Cardiology Center
Call (716) 862-2590
