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Since January this year, the entire world has been thrown off-track by a virus!. Over the last few months as we are learning more and more about the COVID-19 virus we are also finding ways to get on with life and cope with the new normal. In the article, we address a few facts about COVID 19 and the heart and also suggest ways to take care of your heart during this pandemic.
In > 80% of the patients, COVID-19 manifests as a mild viral illness. A small portion, especially the elderly develop a more serious disease. Pre-existing cardiac ailments are also known to adversely affect outcomes.
Why Cardiac Patients Are At a Higher Risk?
In some case, COVID 19 can directly damage the heart, but more often the oxygen deprivation secondary to lung infection and the accompanying systemic inflammation can worsen a pre-existing cardiac condition. It is important to realise that the risk of getting infected is the same as anyone else!. Also, not all heart ailments pose the same risk – people with heart failure, coronary artery disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, certain genetic arrhythmias need to be more careful. Studies have shown that hypertensives are also at a slightly higher risk of worsening. Visit the best heart hospital in Mangalore today to avoid these risks.
Protecting yourself against the virus
Until such time as a potent vaccine is easily available, our best defence against the virus includes – social distancing, hand hygiene and face mask. The world health organisation (WHO) encourages the use of fabric (non-medical) masks in situations where it is not possible to maintain social distancing like public transports, shops and other crowded environments. Furthermore, the WHO also recommends the use of medical masks for people above 60 years and those with cardiac ailments or other co-morbidities.
In case you get infected,
Since cardiac patients are at a higher risk of worsening, it is a good idea to get in touch with your doctor early, in case of sore throat or fever. Also look out for atypical symptoms of COVID 19, like body aches, tiredness or diarrhoea. It is important to recognise that many patients do not complain of shortness of breath despite being deprived of oxygen-‘happy hypoxia’. Hence it is important for an infected patient to monitor saturation with a pulse-oximeter and get in touch with the best cardiologist in Mangalore early. Another reason for visiting your doctor early would be to adjust your cardiac medications. Studies have shown that early recognition of worsening and early intervention can lower mortality. ‘Denial’ and ‘Delay’ are two very costly mistakes, especially for cardiac patients.
Preventing Cardiac Disease during the Pandemic
2020 has been a year of introspection. The virus and the lockdown both have forced us to focus more on our health and our lifestyle. People can utilise this opportunity to adopt a healthier lifestyle in order to mitigate future cardiac risk. It is important to…
Eat Healthily
Fresh fruits and vegetables are a much better choice to improve immunity than consuming vitamins. Healthy eating habits will also help reduce blood pressure, sugar and lipid levels in patients
Remain Active
The recommended 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity exercise can still be achieved at home by walking more, taking the stairs more often or by skipping a rope or by following an online exercise class.
Sleep Sufficient
Quit smoking and finally
Remain positive
For all that COVID 19 numbers that has scared us since the past since months, do not forget that more than 98% of the infected people survive! so, be positive!
KMC Hospital, Dr B R Ambedkar Circle Mangalore
Synopsis
Preventing Cardiac Disease during the Pandemic
2020 has been a year of introspection. The virus and the lockdown both have forced us to focus more on our health and our lifestyle. People can utilise this opportunity to adopt a healthier lifestyle in order to mitigate future cardiac risk. It is important to…
Why cardiac patients are at a higher risk?
In some case, COVID 19 can directly damage the heart, but more often the oxygen deprivation secondary to lung infection and the accompanying systemic inflammation can worsen a pre-existing cardiac condition. It is important to realise that the risk of getting infected is the same as anyone else!. Also, not all heart ailments pose the same risk – people with heart failure, coronary artery disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, certain genetic arrhythmias need to be more careful. Studies have shown that hypertensives are also at a slightly higher risk of worsening. Visit the best heart hospital in Mangalore today to avoid these risks.
Protecting yourself against the virus:
Until such time as a potent vaccine is easily available, our best defence against the virus includes – social distancing, hand hygiene and face mask. The world health organisation (WHO) encourages the use of fabric (non-medical) masks in situations where it is not possible to maintain social distancing like public transports, shops and other crowded environments. Furthermore, the WHO also recommends the use of medical masks for people above 60 years and those with cardiac ailments or other co-morbidities.
Watch here:
Healthy Bites for Every Trimester: Your Indian Pregnancy Diet Guide
|
Trimester |
Foods to Include |
Why It’s Important |
|
First Trimester (Weeks 1–12) |
Protein: Lentils, tofu, paneer, eggs, chicken Fruits: Oranges, pomegranates, apples Vegetables: Spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, whole wheat roti Dairy: Milk, yoghurt, paneer |
Supports the early development of the baby’s organs. Helps manage morning sickness with vitamin C-rich fruits. Boosts energy with whole grains and iron-rich foods. |
|
Second Trimester (Weeks 13–26) |
Protein: Chicken, fish, legumes, nuts, eggs Fruits: Bananas, berries, guavas Vegetables: Broccoli, bottled gourd, bell peppers Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, wheat chapati Healthy Fats: Avocados, almonds, flaxseeds |
Encourages growth and muscle development for both mother and baby. Rich in fibre for digestion and preventing constipation. Supports brain development with omega-3-rich foods like fish and flaxseeds. |
| Third Trimester (Weeks 27–40) |
Protein: Legumes, chicken, fish, dal, eggs Fruits: Apples, pomegranates, dates Vegetables: Kale, pumpkin, zucchini Whole Grains: Brown rice, multigrain roti, quinoa Dairy: Curd, milk, paneer, buttermilk Iron-Rich Foods: Spinach, chickpeas, dates |
Supports baby’s rapid growth and weight gain. Helps prepare for labour with energy-rich foods. Maintains healthy iron levels to prevent anaemia in the mother and promote blood circulation |
FAQ's
Covid 19 and cardiac care
Role of Exercise in the Prevention of Heart Disease
Covid 19
A scheduled C-section is a predetermined surgical delivery often advised for specific medical conditions or complications. Unlike emergency procedures, types of cesarean section allow for careful preparation and aren't conducted in response to an urgent situation.
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