Contact

(0 22 22) 93 23 21

German German

Award winner 2022

Myocarditis after a Covid-19 infection

on Wednesday, 24 January 2024.

Corona aftercare

There is evidence and evidence that COVID-19 can have a number of effects on the heart, including the possibility of heart muscle inflammation, as well myocarditis famous.

 Some aspects that have been reported in connection with myocarditis following COVID-19 infection are:

  • myocarditis symptoms
    
Some people who have had COVID-19 have developed symptoms suggestive of myocarditis, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and general weakness.



  • Diagnosis
    Diagnosis of myocarditis after COVID-19 can be made through several methods, including blood tests, imaging tests such as MRI, and a review of medical history and symptoms.
  • Risk factors
    Certain factors may increase the risk of myocarditis after a COVID-19 infection, including the presence of pre-existing medical conditions, severity of COVID-19 symptoms, and certain genetic factors.



  • long-term consequences
    
Some studies have suggested that myocarditis may be a long-term consequence of COVID-19, but further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms and frequencies.

What is myocarditis?

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle, called the myocardium. This inflammation can have various causes, including infections, autoimmune reactions, and toxic influences. In relation to COVID-19, myocarditis refers to inflammation of the heart muscle, which can be caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Myocarditis should be taken seriously because it can lead to long-term heart problems.

  • Causes
    The causes of myocarditis can be varied. However, infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites are common triggerAmong viruses, coxsackieviruses and enteroviruses are among the most common pathogens, but other viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, can also cause myocarditis.


  • Symptoms
    The symptoms of myocarditis can vary, from mild discomfort to severe heart problems. Possible symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heart rhythm, fever, and edema (fluid retention).



  • Diagnosis
    Myocarditis can be diagnosed using a variety of methods, including blood tests, imaging techniques such as Echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and in some cases a heart muscle biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue is taken to detect inflammation.

  • 

Treatment

    Treatment for myocarditis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, relieving symptoms and helping the body heal may be enough. More severe cases may require medications such as anti-inflammatories or immunosuppressants. In rare cases, a heart transplant may be necessary.



The SARS-CoV-2 virus can penetrate the heart muscle cells

Based on what we know so far, COVID-19 disease may damage the heart muscle through several mechanisms. Here are some key points:

  • entry into heart muscle cells

    The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is responsible for COVID-19, can penetrate heart muscle cells. This happens through the interaction between a specific antigen part on the envelope of the virus (key) and the ACE2 receptor on the cell surface of lung and heart cells (lock).



  • myocarditis
    In some cases, tissue samples from COVID-19 patients have shown that the virus is present directly in the heart muscle. This can lead to inflammation of the heart muscle, known as myocarditis.



  • troponin increase
    
An increase in the heart attack marker troponin has been observed in some patients with COVID-19, often after the actual symptoms of infection have subsided. This could indicate damage to the heart muscle.



  • Imaging studies

    Imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) have shown evidence of cardiac involvement and myocarditis in some patients with asymptomatic COVID-19 disease.



  • risk of long-term damage

    There is evidence that the risk of severe heart damage may be greater with infection with SARS-CoV-2 than with vaccination with an mRNA vaccine to protect against COVID-19. However, the exact mechanisms and extent of long-term damage are not yet fully understood.

The effects may vary from case to case, and research on this topic is still ongoing. Individuals who have concerns about their heart health after COVID-19 infection should discuss this with their Doctor discuss and have regular examinations carried out.

What are the symptoms of myocarditis?

The symptoms of myocarditis can vary and range from mild discomfort to severe heart problems.

The most common symptoms are:

  • Chest pain
    
Pain or discomfort in the chest area may occur. This may manifest as a dull, pressing ache or a burning sensation.



  • shortness of breath

    Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing may occur, especially during physical exertion.



  • fatigue
    Excessive exhaustion or fatigue that is not relieved by rest or sleep may indicate myocarditis.



  • Arrhythmia
    
Irregular heartbeat, rapid heartbeat or palpitations may occur.



  • fever
    An increase in body temperature is a common symptom of inflammation, including myocarditis.



  • CHECKOUT
    
Fluid accumulation in the tissues, especially in the legs, can occur.



  • Weight gain
    Unexplained weight gain can occur due to water retention.



  • weakness and muscle pain
    
General weakness, muscle pain or joint pain may occur.

The symptoms are not always clear. In some cases, the disease can be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages. However, if myocarditis is suspected, medical help should be sought immediately, because timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to minimize potential long-term damage to the heart.