Cardiac health during COVID-19: A useful read for heart patients in Siliguri

You may have heard that those with pre-existing illnesses like respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease and kidney problems, are more likely to develop severe symptoms if they contract COVID-19.  While it is true that having a heart condition can put you at greater risk, there are several ways you can take good care of your heart during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Over here we discuss some ways to protect your cardiac health during COVID-19:  

1. What should cardiac patients do? If you have a history of heart disease or have a risk factor for heart disease, it is best to assess personal risk and seek medical advice. Here is what you can do: 

Make an appointment with your cardiologist to keep a tab on your cardiac health. If there has been any change in your health like weight change, high blood pressure, trouble in sleeping, then consult your cardiologist. You can consult via phone or video call. Go for an in-person visit when the doctor suggests so.

At Neotia Getwel Healthcare Centre, a multispecialty hospital, we have state-of-the-art-technology in the cardiology department. Our well-experienced cardiologists perform several cardiac procedures and surgeries. We can help you get your problem evaluated so that proper care can be taken early. 

Daily to-dos: On a daily basis, weigh yourself. Also, check whether there’s any swelling in the legs. Check if you are not suffering from shortness of breath and chest pain. If there is a problem with any of these, call your cardiologist.

2. Who needs regular cardiac follow up? Anyone who has suffered a heart attack needs cardiac rehabilitation and regular follow-up. These follow-ups should include blood pressure checks and a blood test (for cholesterol and kidney function). To avoid spending more time in the hospital, you can arrange blood tests at home before your appointment with a cardiologist. You can also take your own blood pressure at home with a portable monitor and note down the readings. This will help you make the most out of your appointment. 

3. What needs to be done post bypass heart surgery? Full recovery after a bypass heart surgery takes a few weeks. Some surgeries can even take months. However, in the times of COVID-19 pandemic, while you are recovering you need to take extra precautions. To guard yourself against COVID-19, you will find the following precautions useful: 

  • Stay at home as much as possible.
  • Avoid going close to people who are sick or having flu-like symptoms.
  • Wash hands often.
  • When around others, always wear a mask.
  • Avoid places where social distancing is difficult to maintain.
  • Disinfect high touch-surfaces at home like doorknobs, table surfaces, switchboard, cabinet handles, and mobile phones.
  • While you will need caregivers to assist you, it’s best to limit the number. Let a family member like spouse or children provide you with assistance than somebody who has to go out frequently.
  • In case the caregiver is coming from outside, make sure he or she follows the guidelines that are necessary for preventing COVID-19.
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