COVID-19's Hidden Threat to Heart Health Persists Long After Recovery

How COVID-19 Affects the Heart—and Why Vaccination Shouldn't Wait

The impact of coronavirus infection on the heart and the urgency of vaccination were discussed at a press conference by Kurmangazy Madaliev, Deputy Chairman of the Board at the Research Institute of Cardiology and Internal Diseases and a Candidate of Medical Sciences. The event, organized by the Regional Communications Service, coincided with World Heart Day, Almaty.tv reports.

According to Madaliev, COVID-19 triggers a cascade of changes in the body that extend to the cardiovascular system. Blood clotting disorders lead to microthrombi, while alterations in vascular wall stiffness contribute to elevated blood pressure—just some of the virus's lingering effects. The disease poses an especially severe threat to those with preexisting heart and vascular conditions, potentially destabilizing their health and provoking crises.

Not everyone who recovers from COVID-19 develops cardiac complications, Madaliev noted, but high-risk groups—particularly those with chronic conditions—face greater danger. Clinical experience shows that patients with ischemic heart disease, hypertension, endocrine disorders like diabetes, obesity, or advanced age often experience heightened thrombogenesis. In individuals with coronary artery disease or atherosclerotic vascular damage, microthromboses in the coronary arteries can trigger recurrent heart attacks. "Those with chronic illnesses must exercise extreme caution," he emphasized.

To strengthen heart health, Madaliev recommended an active lifestyle, balanced nutrition, consistent sleep patterns, and regular physical activity—whether through walking, therapeutic exercises, or jogging.

The deputy chairman also highlighted the advanced capabilities of the institute's cardiac surgery department. "We perform life-saving operations on patients with critical aortic stenosis at high risk of sudden death," he said. "Through innovative approaches, we not only extend lives but significantly improve their quality." Since January 2020, the institute's day hospital has offered outpatient diagnostic coronary angiography, while cutting-edge catheter-based technologies are employed to treat complex cardiac arrhythmias.