Winter Viruses: Experts Warn of Potential Heart Complications

As winter approaches, health officials report a rise in various viral infections, prompting experts to caution that symptoms of heart disease may often mimic those of respiratory illnesses.

Circulating Viruses Raise Alarm

Currently, four prominent viruses—Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), influenza, COVID-19, and norovirus—are reported to be circulating at “very high levels” across the United States. This surge has raised concerns about a potential “quademic,” or the simultaneous outbreak of multiple viruses.

Link Between Viruses and Heart Health

The American Heart Association (AHA) has confirmed a correlation between specific viruses and an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. According to AHA, “The highest risk is within three days of infection, but the danger may extend for up to 90 days thereafter.”

Misinterpreting Symptoms

Dr. Johanna Contreras, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York City, has observed that patients frequently mistake the symptoms of viral infections for serious heart complications. Common symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, swelling, and palpitations are sometimes misattributed to a common cold, overlooking the potential for heart failure.

Potentially Life-Threatening Conditions

Symptoms like weakness, fever, dizziness, and chest pain are also significant. These could indicate serious conditions such as:

Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)
Heart attack
Pericarditis (inflammation around the heart lining)
Heart failure
Viral myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)

Dr. Icilma Fergus, director of cardiovascular disparities at Mount Sinai, stresses that viral infections can provoke inflammatory conditions that either induce or exacerbate existing cardiac issues.

Understanding the Risks

“Typically, those viruses that make patients significantly ill and promote a hypercoagulable state—an increased tendency to form blood clots—pose greater risks,” Dr. Fergus explained. Recently, attention has intensified towards viruses like RSV and norovirus, in addition to known threats from influenza and COVID-19.

Inflammatory Responses and Heart Health

Dr. Anuradha Lala from Mount Sinai points out that when confronted with viral infections, the immune system responds by triggering inflammation. While this facilitates fighting off the virus, it may inadvertently damage cardiac tissue. She warns that individuals with pre-existing heart conditions could experience exacerbations, which involve the aggravation of underlying heart issues.

For instance, one patient exhibited severe shortness of breath, weakness, and fatigue, leading them to suspect heart failure. Subsequent tests revealed elevated troponin levels, often associated with heart attack, although the patient was ultimately diagnosed with influenza A and severe viral myocarditis, which led to successful treatment.

High-Risk Groups and Symptoms to Watch For

Older adults and individuals who are immunocompromised or have a history of heart problems face elevated risks for cardiovascular complications from these viruses. Dr. Fergus emphasizes that anyone, including healthcare providers, can be affected. Hence, vigilance regarding symptoms is crucial.

Health officials recommend that patients observe any persistent post-viral symptoms, especially chest pain and palpitations. Such symptoms could indicate myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle that requires immediate medical evaluation.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Patients who experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting episodes, or extreme blood pressure fluctuations should seek emergency attention. Swelling in the legs is another concerning symptom, particularly in individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors such as obesity and diabetes.

Staying Vigilant This Winter

Winter’s cold, damp conditions can enable certain viruses to thrive and become more virulent. Dr. Fergus advises people to remain alert for symptoms of viral infections. “Get tested to identify the virus you have, as antiviral treatments vary based on the pathogen,” she said. Taking precautions to avoid exposure to these winter illnesses and urgent medical care if sick is crucial, especially for those with underlying conditions.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Healthcare professionals recommend vaccinations for vulnerable groups when available. The AHA suggests the following precautions to mitigate the risk of contracting a virus:

Practice good hand hygiene.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
Stay informed and updated on recommended vaccines.

Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality in the U.S. Awareness and proactivity are vital in navigating the potential impacts of winter viruses on heart health.