Heart Attack & COVID-19: Possible Link And Why You Should Get A Heart Health Screening

As the world moves beyond the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging research continues to uncover its long-term effects on health. One alarming finding is the potential connection between COVID-19 and getting a heart attack. A recent study published in Radiology suggests that prior COVID-19 infection may accelerate coronary artery disease (CAD), increasing the risk of heart attacks even in individuals with no previous cardiovascular history.

If you or a loved one have had COVID-19, it may be time to assess your heart health—because coronary artery disease often develops silently until it leads to a life-threatening event.

Learn More: Coronary Heart Disease In Singapore >>

How COVID-19 Increases Heart Attack Risk

A study using coronary computed tomography angiography (Coronary CTA) examined 690 patients who had COVID-19 and compared their coronary artery health to 113 patients without COVID-19. The findings were concerning:

1. Accelerated Plaque Build-Up in the Arteries

• Patients with a history of COVID-19 had a 28% higher annual progression of total atheroma volume (plaque accumulation in arteries) compared to those without the virus.
• Non-calcified plaque, which is more unstable and prone to rupture, progressed 36% faster in post-COVID patients.

Why This Matters: Plaque build-up narrows arteries and can eventually block blood flow to the heart, leading to a heart attack.

2. Increased Inflammation in Coronary Arteries

• The study found higher levels of peri-coronary adipose tissue (PCAT) attenuation in COVID-19 patients, a sign of increased coronary inflammation.
• The presence of high-risk plaques (more likely to rupture and cause blockages) was also significantly greater in the post-COVID group (21% vs. 15.8%).

Why This Matters: Inflammation can weaken plaque structures, making them more likely to rupture and trigger a heart attack.

3. Long-Term Cardiovascular Risks

• Even months after recovery, COVID-19 patients showed signs of worsening heart disease, indicating that the virus may cause ongoing damage.
• These findings raise concerns about long-term cardiovascular monitoring for those who have had COVID-19, especially those at high risk due to age, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

Important Caveats: What We Still Don’t Know

• While this study strongly suggests a connection between COVID-19 and heart disease progression, it is important to note:
• The study was retrospective and conducted at a single center, meaning broader studies are needed for confirmation.
• The timing of COVID-19 infection and follow-up heart scans varied, which could impact findings.
• Individual risk factors like genetics and lifestyle choices also play a significant role in heart disease progression.

Despite these caveats, the importance of monitoring cardiovascular health after COVID-19 should not be ignored, especially for those with existing risk factors.

The Silent Threat: Coronary Artery Disease, Heart Attack, And The Need For Screening

One of the most concerning aspects of coronary artery disease (CAD – whereby the flow of blood to the heart is blocked due to blockages in the arteries) is that it often develops without symptoms until a heart attack occurs. Many people who suffer heart attacks had no prior warning signs.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. A heart health screening can detect early signs of coronary artery disease before it’s too late.

Learn More: Heart Health Screening In Singapore >>

Who Should Get A Heart Health Screening?

• Anyone who has had COVID-19, especially if they experienced severe illness, can consider heart health screening.
• Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease.
• Those who smoke or lead a sedentary lifestyle.
• Anyone over the age of 40, as heart disease risk increases with age.

Take Action: Protect Your Heart Today

If you’ve had COVID-19, do not ignore your heart health. The potential link between COVID-19 and heart attack risk is concerning, but early detection through heart health screening can save lives.

• Schedule a heart health check-up today to assess your risk.
• Talk to a doctor about a Coronary CTA scan if you have concerns about coronary artery disease.
• Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle—exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress.

Your heart matters. Take the first step towards a healthier future today.

Contact Us For An Appointment

The impact of COVID-19 on heart health is becoming clearer, and the evidence suggests a heightened risk of coronary artery disease. While further studies are needed, it is crucial to prioritise heart screenings, especially if you’ve had COVID-19. To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist on your heart health, contact us via the button below.

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