If you’re dealing with a serious heart condition, you’re more susceptible to illness and the harm it can cause to your body. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important for cardiac patients to recognize their high-risk status and do what they can to keep themselves and the people around them safe. Here are the best precautions you can take during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stay Home as Much as You Can
Staying home is the most effective way to protect yourself from the spread of the COVID-19 virus. If your job gives you the option to work from home, take it. Use delivery services when possible and video call your treatment team instead of going to your appointments in-person.
Protect Yourself in Public
When you must go in public, keep yourself protected. Wear gloves and face coverings every time you go out, and keep a distance of at least 6 feet away from everyone else whenever possible. Try to get your shopping done at times when the store is less busy, instead of going during rush hours.
When you get back from your outing, we recommend using hand sanitizer once you walk inside and then immediately washing your hands, or even taking a shower, to kill any germs you might have picked up.
If anyone in your home has to go outside on a regular basis, you should sanitize your home’s high-contact surfaces, like doorknobs and countertops, every day.
Keep in Contact With Your Treatment Team
Your treatment team is vital at this stressful time. On top of being high risk because of your heart condition, the stress of hearing about the pandemic can weaken your heart even more. Discuss stress management with your treatment team and ask about any other steps you can take to prevent exposure to COVID-19. Keep your doctors updated on your symptoms, especially if they worsen for any reason.
Most doctors now offer televisit options for their patients, even if their clinics are open. Utilize this technology to keep in touch with your doctor without putting yourself at risk.
Plan for the Worst
You might not want to think about it, but cardiac patients are more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 than the general population. This means all cardiac patients should do everything they can to prevent exposure, but should also have a plan just in case they catch the virus.
Make sure your home has a room where you can recover while exposing your caregivers and family as little as possible. Keep all your medications on hand at all times, and contact 911 immediately if you experience signs of heart attack or stroke. If you experience coughing, fever, shortness of breath or loss of taste and smell, contact your healthcare provider right away as these are all common symptoms of COVID-19.
The Best in Adult Cardiac Care at Brookhaven Heart
At Brookhaven Heart, we prioritize our patients above all else. Our team is made up of trustworthy cardiac physicians dedicated to giving you the comprehensive treatment you need. With affordable care from talented physicians, Brookhaven Heart is the perfect place for all your cardiac needs. Call or visit our website to schedule an appointment today!
