New research indicates that common viral infections, such as COVID-19 and influenza, significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes in the weeks following infection.
Recent findings suggest that certain viral infections may heighten an individual’s susceptibility to heart disease. A comprehensive study revealed that individuals who contracted COVID-19 or influenza experienced a “dramatically” increased risk of heart attack or stroke—up to three to five times higher—within weeks of the infection. This research, which analyzed 155 scientific studies, was published this week in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
Lead author Kosuke Kawai, an adjunct associate professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, noted, “It is well-recognized that human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus, and other viruses can cause cancer; however, the link between viral infections and other non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, is less well understood.” Kawai added, “Our study found acute and chronic viral infections are linked to both short- and long-term risks of cardiovascular disease, including strokes and heart attacks.”
The research indicated that individuals who tested positive for influenza were four times more likely to experience a heart attack and five times more likely to suffer a stroke within the month following their diagnosis. In the case of COVID-19, the risk of heart attack or stroke was three times higher in the 14 weeks after infection, with an elevated risk persisting for up to a year.
When the body fights off a viral infection, the immune system releases chemicals that trigger inflammation and increase the likelihood of blood clotting. These effects can linger even after recovery from the infection. Ongoing inflammation and clotting can place additional strain on the heart and contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. This may help explain why some individuals face a heightened risk of heart attacks or strokes in the weeks following a viral infection.
Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, emphasized the implications of these findings. “The findings suggest that low-grade inflammation plays a role by increasing the activation of blood clotting and damaging the inner lining of arteries, which supply blood to our bodies,” he stated. While the link between inflammation and cardiovascular events has been known, Serwer noted that this study reveals that many common viruses have a more significant impact than previously believed.
Markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), are associated with an increased risk of cardiac events. Inflammation can harm arteries in various ways, including causing microscopic tears that allow “bad cholesterol” (LDL) to invade and form plaque. Further inflammation can destabilize these plaques, leading to ruptures that may result in heart attacks or strokes. Additionally, inflammation activates the clotting process by stimulating platelets.
The study also identified chronic viruses, including HIV, hepatitis C, and varicella zoster virus (the virus responsible for shingles), as being linked to long-term cardiovascular risks. Individuals with HIV were found to have a 60% higher risk of heart attack and a 45% higher risk of stroke. Those with hepatitis C faced a 27% higher risk of heart attack and a 23% higher risk of stroke, while shingles increased heart attack risk by 12% and stroke risk by 18%.
Kawai pointed out that while the elevated risks associated with chronic viruses are lower than the heightened short-term risks following influenza and COVID-19, they remain clinically relevant, particularly due to their long-lasting effects. “Moreover, shingles affects about one in three people in their lifetime. Therefore, the elevated risk associated with that virus translates into a large number of excess cases of cardiovascular disease at the population level,” Kawai explained.
The researchers advocate for vaccinations against influenza, COVID-19, and shingles, citing studies that link vaccination to a reduced risk of cardiovascular complications. Kawai stated, “Preventive measures against viral infections, including vaccination, may play an important role in decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Prevention is especially important for adults who already have cardiovascular disease or risk factors.”
Serwer concurred, emphasizing that vaccination against these common viruses is a “key preventive strategy.” However, the researchers acknowledged some limitations of the study, noting that it was based on observational studies rather than randomized controlled trials. They also pointed out that most studies examined infection with a single virus, leaving it unclear how infections with multiple viruses or bacteria may have influenced the results.
The analysis focused on viral infections affecting the general public and did not identify high-risk groups, such as transplant recipients, who may be disproportionately affected. For individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, the researchers recommend consulting a healthcare provider to discuss appropriate vaccine recommendations.
Source: Original article