In the aftermath of COVID-19, India has seen a sharp rise in heart attacks, especially among younger adults. The pandemic left behind more than viral scars—it disrupted heart health across the population.
The New Heart Health Emergency
Hospitals across India report a 20–30% increase in heart-related emergencies post-COVID. Alarmingly, even people in their 30s and 40s—previously considered low-risk—are being affected.
Doctors attribute this to a mix of post-viral complications, lifestyle deterioration, and mental stress.
How COVID-19 Affected the Heart
COVID-19 is not just a respiratory virus—it causes inflammation throughout the body, including the heart.
It can lead to:
- Myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation)
- Increased clotting tendencies
- Weakening of heart tissue
Even after recovery, many experience lingering inflammation, which raises the risk of heart attacks, especially when combined with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or obesity.
The Lifestyle Factor
Lockdowns worsened sedentary habits. People worked from home, exercised less, and ate more processed food. Alcohol and tobacco use also rose during the pandemic. Together, these changes pushed heart risk higher than ever before.
Warning Signs Ignored
Younger people often mistake early signs of heart trouble—fatigue, breathlessness, or mild chest pain—for stress or acidity. Post-COVID, these symptoms deserve immediate medical attention.
Prevention Is Key
- Routine Heart Check-ups: Especially for those who had moderate or severe COVID-19.
- Regular Exercise: 30 minutes of walking or yoga keeps circulation strong.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Rich in fruits, nuts, omega-3, and low in refined foods.
- Avoid Smoking and Excess Alcohol: Both multiply the risk post-COVID.
- Stress Management: Chronic anxiety triggers heart rhythm issues.
The Silver Lining
Awareness is improving. More people now undergo cardiac screening, and hospitals are offering post-COVID heart clinics. The crisis has also sparked conversations about preventive health.
Final Word
The pandemic was a wake-up call. COVID-19 taught us that the heart is more vulnerable than we thought—and that prevention must be woven into everyday life.
