General
I have a heart condition
Am I more at risk of getting COVID-19 than somebody who doesn’t have a heart condition?
Will my symptoms be more severe?
Is the risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms similar for all patients with a heart condition?
Can COVID-19 cause heart problems?
I have read that COVID-19 can cause heart problems such as heart attack or arrhythmias, is this true?
I have diabetes and/or hypertension
Are cardiac patients who also have diabetes and/or hypertension at greater risk?
I have myocarditis or pericarditis
There are reports that COVID-19 may induce myocarditis or pericarditis. Am I more vulnerable if I previously had it?
I have COVID-19 symptoms
When should I seek medical attention if I have a pre-existing heart condition and am infected?
Protection
Should I take additional measures?
Are there any additional measures that I should take to limit my risk of getting sick, as I have a heart condition?
Does the flu jab protect me against COVID-19?
I had the flu and pneumococcal vaccine this year, am I protected from this virus?
Can I take vitamins or other food supplements?
Which ones? Do they protect me against the COVID-19?
Medication
What do I need to know?
There have been news reports about a medication given to some COVID-19 patients which could cause dangerous arrhythmias
Leaving Home
Should I go ahead with scheduled appointments?
Or should I avoid going to medical centres or hospitals?
Am I safe outside of the house?
Provided I avoid crowded areas, can I go to the park or walk outside?
I feel very anxious
Is there anything I can do to feel better?
This is an anxious time for everyone and we are providing tips to help you cope with the uncertainties surrounding a pandemic that none of us was prepared for only a few months ago.
Remember: Even during the pandemic, do not delay
Getting medical help quickly can save your life – time is truly of the essence. Hospitals will do their utmost to treat you in a safe environment.
References
1. World Health Organization (WHO) Q&A on coronaviruses 2. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: Myth busters 3. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control: Information on COVID-19 for specific groups: the elderly, patients with chronic diseases, people with immunocompromising condition and pregnant women 4. EMA gives advice on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for COVID-19 5. World Heart Federation (WHF): The link between COVID- 19 and CVD 6. COVID-19 and the cardiovascular system 7. Are patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus at increased risk for COVID-19 infection? 8. Position Statement of the ESC Council on Hypertension on ACE-Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers 9. British Heart Foundation: Coronavirus: what it means for you if you have heart or circulatory disease 10. NHS: Stay at home advice 11. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: When and how to use masks 12. COVID-19: chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine only to be used in clinical trials or emergency use programmes 13. WHO: How to handwash 14. WHO : Q&A : Masks and COVID-19 15. COVID-19 and Postinfection Immunity – Limited Evidence, Many Remaining Questions