Addressing the Long-Term Cardiovascular Effects of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a significant mark on global cardiovascular health, with millions suffering from long-lasting effects. This has led to gaps in guidance on how to effectively prevent and manage these complications, leaving many patients vulnerable to unproven treatments and ongoing health risks.

A comprehensive report published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology highlights strategies to confront this rising issue through improved diagnosis, targeted treatment, rehabilitation, and vaccination efforts. The consensus was developed by a panel of experts led by Professor Vassilios Vassiliou from the University of East Anglia and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, representing the European Society of Cardiology.

Prof. Vassiliou emphasized that COVID-19’s impacts extend beyond respiratory symptoms, significantly affecting cardiovascular systems during acute illness, recovery, and possibly even after reinfections or vaccination. Without clear, evidence-based guidelines, both clinicians and patients face increasing uncertainties regarding the best approaches to prevention and care.

The report offers unified, practical recommendations, including the necessity for structured cardiac rehabilitation programs. Such programs, encompassing specialized physiotherapy, aim to prevent long-term complications and support recovery from long COVID conditions involving the heart, such as angina, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

Statistics show that over a billion individuals worldwide have been infected with COVID-19, and the risk of cardiovascular issues increases notably among those hospitalized with the virus. Approximately 100 million people are living with long COVID, with around 5% experiencing cardiac symptoms like chest pain, breathlessness, and dizziness. These symptoms may signal ongoing cardiac long COVID, characterized by autonomic dysfunction and other long-term impacts.

The expert panel advocates for continued vaccination against COVID-19, which significantly lowers the risk of cardiac complications and long COVID. They also recommend thorough diagnosis and targeted treatment of cardiovascular symptoms, as well as advocating for equitable access to rehabilitation services, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Prof. Vassiliou stressed the importance of health systems expanding their capacity to deliver cardiac rehabilitation and prevent long COVID’s long-term effects. Investing in resources and ensuring fair access to care are crucial in reducing the ongoing burden of COVID-related cardiac health issues.

This proactive approach, rooted in the latest research and clinical consensus, aims to mitigate the profound, enduring impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular health and improve patient outcomes worldwide.