COVID-19’s impact extends beyond respiratory issues, raising concerns about its effects on other body systems. Many individuals are now wondering about the connection between this infection and heart conditions, specifically atrial fibrillation. Understanding this relationship is important for recognizing potential health implications and seeking medical guidance. This article explores the observed links and how COVID-19 can influence heart rhythm.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, or Afib, is a heart rhythm problem where the upper chambers of the heart, the atria, beat chaotically and irregularly. This disorganized electrical activity causes the atria to quiver instead of contracting effectively. As a result, blood does not flow efficiently into the lower heart chambers, the ventricles, leading to reduced blood circulation.
People experiencing Afib may notice symptoms such as a fluttering or pounding sensation in their chest, fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness. While Afib is not always immediately life-threatening, its irregular rhythm can increase the risk of serious complications like stroke, due to blood clot formation, and can contribute to heart failure.
The Link Between COVID-19 and Atrial Fibrillation
COVID-19 can be linked to the development or worsening of atrial fibrillation. Studies show an increased incidence of new-onset Afib in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, especially in those with severe illness. Research indicates new-onset Afib occurred in about one in 20 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, with some studies showing up to a twelve-fold risk increase in the first month post-infection compared to uninfected individuals.
Several mechanisms contribute to this connection. Systemic inflammation, often called a “cytokine storm,” can directly affect heart tissue, leading to electrical disturbances. The virus can also directly infect heart muscle cells by binding to ACE-2 receptors, potentially causing myocarditis, or heart muscle inflammation.
Severe stress on the body during COVID-19, including hypoxia or sepsis-like states, can further strain the cardiovascular system and contribute to irregular heart rhythms. Endothelial dysfunction, where blood vessel lining is damaged, and electrolyte imbalances can also affect the heart’s electrical stability, promoting Afib.
Factors Increasing Risk
Certain factors increase an individual’s susceptibility to developing atrial fibrillation after a COVID-19 infection. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, coronary artery disease, or a history of prior Afib, face a higher likelihood of new-onset Afib following COVID-19.
Advancing age is another contributing factor, with risk increasing for those over 65. The severity of COVID-19 also plays a role; patients requiring hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, or mechanical ventilation are at greater risk.
Other co-existing medical conditions can also elevate this vulnerability, including:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Hyperthyroidism
Unvaccinated individuals may experience a higher risk of developing these cardiac rhythm disturbances compared to those who are vaccinated. While COVID-19 can trigger Afib even in previously healthy individuals, these underlying vulnerabilities significantly amplify the risk.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Individuals who have experienced COVID-19 should be aware of potential heart-related symptoms and seek medical evaluation. If you experience persistent palpitations (a racing, fluttering, or pounding heart), or new or worsening shortness of breath, dizziness, or extreme fatigue after a COVID-19 infection, consult a healthcare professional. This also applies if you experience these symptoms for the first time.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms are severe or suggest a more serious event. Seek emergency care if you experience severe chest pain, fainting spells, or rapidly worsening difficulty breathing.
Signs of a stroke, such as sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion, warrant an immediate call to emergency services. Do not drive yourself to the emergency room in such situations.