One who recovers from flu must get one’s heart evaluated

Swine Flu may Predispose for Sudden Heart Attack

New Delhi, February 25, 2015.  The aftermath of swine flu could be sudden heart attack.

Leading Cardiologist and director of Metro Hospitals and Heart Institute, Dr. Purushottam Lal has cautioned it. According to him, swine flu or any other flu may leave one with weak heart muscle. A person, who has recovered from flu, must get his heart evaluated.

Talking to Meditoall editor dhananjay kumar, Dr. Lal said, ‘  The virus of any flu can also dent  the heart adversely, causing irreparable damage to the cardiac muscle and possibly killing those who appear fit, even young adults,’

According to Dr. Lal, the condition, known as myocarditis, occurs when a virus penetrates heart muscles which in turn trigger a defensive response from the body with robust immune system. That reactive attack can be deadly. Dr. Lal has advised ddoctors should also evaluate flu survivors for potential late onset of cardiovascular complications that may occur following the typical flu- like illness.

Sadly, most doctors do not factor in myocarditis. It is to the peril of many flu survivors.  ‘In flu patients, myocarditis frequently goes undiagnosed until it reaches serious levels, at that point, damage to the heart is often beyond repair’, said Dr. Lal.

According to Dr. Lal, a few clues, including chest pain and an irregular heartbeat, can suggest that flu viruses have moved into the heart. Patients, who temporarily recover from the flu and then suddenly start feeling sick again also must be screened for the complication,.

Dr. Lal suggests that people with heart failure should be alert to changes in their breathing and should promptly report changes to their health care provider. It is especially important to wash your hands often with soap and water and follow other basic hygiene to avoid infection. Do not stop taking your medications without first consulting your health care provider, especially in the event of influenza or a respiratory infection.

Dr. Lal further says, ‘In a swine flu patient, fever causes dehydration which in turn increases the risk of blood clot and blood getting viscous. So swine flu or any flu patient should take sufficient liquid to avert these risky episodes.’