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FRIDAY, Aug. 7, 2020 (HealthDay News)<\/p>\n
With evidence mounting that COVID-19<\/a> can damage the heart<\/a>, experts urge people to take precautions when doing vigorous exercise<\/a>.<\/p>\n Up to 30% of patients hospitalized with coronavirus infection have signs of cardiac injury, according to Dr. Sunal Makadia, health director of sports cardiology at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore.<\/p>\n The prevalence of heart<\/a> damage in milder cases of COVID-19<\/a> is unknown. Still, experts worry about the potential for serious heart complications from engaging in vigorous exercise<\/a> while infected with the virus.<\/p>\n The American College of Cardiology’s Sports and Exercise<\/a> Council recommends that people get a COVID-19<\/a> test and heart screening before playing sports or exercising.<\/p>\n Even if they show no symptoms, those who test positive for COVID-19<\/a> should avoid exercise<\/a> for at least two weeks, Makadia recommended.<\/p>\n “After this, you can return to activity after being evaluated by a medical professional or cardiologist,” he said in a health system news release.<\/p>\n Symptoms such as shortness of breath<\/a>, chest pain<\/a>, a fluttering or a rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness<\/a>, leg swelling<\/a>, muscle pains and unexplained fatigue<\/a> may indicate a severe heart problem.<\/p>\n “We’re still learning more, but those with high blood pressure<\/a>, high cholesterol<\/a>, obesity<\/a>, diabetes<\/a>, and previous heart issues such as coronary artery disease<\/a>, stents<\/a> or coronary bypass<\/a> surgery and heart failure<\/a> are susceptible to the most severe complications of COVID-19<\/a>,” Makadia said.<\/p>\n Experts suggest exercising outdoors rather than indoors.<\/p>\n While training alone is ideal, Makadia said people who elect to exercise with a group should double the standard social distancing guideline from 6 feet<\/a> to 12 feet<\/a>.<\/p>\n When running<\/a> in a group, do not place yourself “downstream,” or directly behind another runner, to avoid aerosolized droplets that can spread the coronavirus.<\/p>\n “Wear masks unless you are absolutely alone,” Makadia added.<\/p>\n Finally, as gyms and communal training facilities reopen, remember to practice good hygiene. Wash your hands and any equipment you use, bring your own towels, and avoid water fountains and crowded areas.<\/p>\n — Serena McNiff<\/p>\n ![\"MedicalNews\"](\"https:\/\/images.medicinenet.com\/images\/HealthDay\/healthday.png\")
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