COVID-19 Impact on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Closer Look
Living with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Individuals with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) may face increased challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disruptions in clinical care, cancelled appointments and investigations, postponed procedures, and missed medication doses are potential factors affecting those with HCM [1].
HCM is a condition that causes the walls of the heart chambers to thicken, which can restrict blood flow to and from the heart [2]. This underlying heart condition can make people with HCM more susceptible to worsened outcomes if they contract COVID-19.
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, can cause severe symptoms and serious complications, including affecting the heart. In some cases, it can lead to myocardial injury, myocarditis, and arrhythmias [3][4]. For those with pre-existing cardiomyopathies like HCM, these effects may exacerbate cardiac dysfunction and increase the risk of hospitalization and serious events like arrhythmias and cardiac arrest [1][5].
Vaccination is particularly recommended for people with HCM, as vaccines reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 complications and hospitalization. Although there is a small risk of myocarditis linked to vaccination, heart complications from COVID-19 infection occur at a significantly higher rate [3].
In a 2022 study, one-third of those with COVID-19 and cardiomyopathy reported experiencing a deterioration in their physical health [6]. This reflects the need for close monitoring and preventive care in HCM patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
People with HCM, however, have higher rates of hospitalization due to COVID-19. If a person with HCM tests positive for COVID-19, they should contact a healthcare professional right away, even if their symptoms are mild [1].
It's important to note that those with HCM are not at greater risk of contracting COVID-19 itself, but they are at risk of severe illness from the virus. To reduce the risk of infection and severe illness, it's recommended to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, wear a mask, avoid crowded areas, maintain social distancing, move indoor activities with others outdoors, improve ventilation in indoor spaces, and avoid contact with people who have COVID-19 or potentially have COVID-19 [7].
In addition, numerous studies have suggested a connection between COVID-19 and cardiovascular problems more broadly, with even those with a mild case of COVID-19 having an increased risk of cardiovascular disease following infection [8].
In summary:
- HCM raises the risk of severe COVID-19 complications, especially cardiac and pulmonary issues.
- HCM patients are more prone to arrhythmias and heart failure exacerbated by COVID-19.
- They have an increased risk of hospitalization if infected.
- COVID-19 vaccines are urged for HCM patients since the benefits outweigh the risks of rare vaccine-induced myocarditis [3].
This relationship reflects the need for close monitoring and preventive care in HCM patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Science has indicated that chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease, COPD, type-2 diabetes, cancer, and neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, and migraines could potentialize severe COVID-19 complications.
- Individuals with digestive health concerns may experience exacerbated symptoms or complications if they contract COVID-19, and those with eye-health problems and hearing issues could face similar risks.
- The cardiovascular health of people with HCM serves as a reminder that numerous medical-conditions can increase the severity of COVID-19, even conditions that don't typically affect the heart, like psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- The respiratory conditions associated with COVID-19 infection can lead to severe complications, including myocardial injury, myocarditis, and arrhythmias, all of which can pose a greater threat to people with HCM.
- Therapies and treatments for medical-conditions like HCM could be delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a worsening of symptoms and potentially increased complications.
- Given the connection between COVID-19 and heart problems, individuals with pre-existing conditions may need to take extra precautions to maintain their health and wellness, whether their conditions involve the heart or other organs.
- Skin-conditions like eczema and psoriasis can exacerbate during stressful times, implying that managing stress and maintaining holistic health practices is crucial for individuals with all types of medical-conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Studies have shown that COVID-19 may increase the risk of developing chronic diseases later in life, particularly cardiovascular disease, highlighting the importance of maintaining overall health during the pandemic.
- CBD, a popular natural remedy, has been suggested to help manage the symptoms of various medical-conditions like anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, all of which can worsen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices, can help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 and experiencing severe symptoms.
- People with HCM, chronic diseases, or other medical-conditions should consult their healthcare professionals before making any significant lifestyle changes or starting new therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The pandemic has disrupted access to medical care, but telehealth has emerged as a valuable resource for managing ongoing medical-conditions, allowing patients to maintain close contact with their healthcare providers even when in-person visits aren't possible.
- The mental health implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, from isolation and anxiety to stress and depression, have become increasingly apparent and require attention, particularly for individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions.
