With so many unknowns circling the COVID-19 global pandemic, it’s difficult to pinpoint numerous factors, such as who tends to experience stronger symptoms, what makes some people asymptomatic, and what impacts seasonality has on the virus. 

However, there is one factor that’s for certain: Individuals with heart conditions are among the most vulnerable. According to early reports, some 40% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients had underlying cardiovascular conditions. 

The impacts of COVID-19 on individuals with coronary heart disease, previous heart surgery, or stents can be detrimental. So much so, some heart patients are admitting to the fact that they’re avoiding the emergency room in fears that infection with the virus could prove more physically harmful than their existing heart conditions. 

In a recent article from STAT, Stayc Simpson spoke out about her fear of visiting the emergency room despite her fluctuating blood pressure readings, implanted pacemaker and defibrillator, and history of heart failure. 

“At what point do I think it’s OK to go to the ER?” asked Simpson. “I just don’t know. If there were no Covid, there’s no question I’d go.”

So, what precautions can heart patients take in order to avoid living in fear? 

Don’t stop medications 

Despite early speculation that certain heart medications (specifically ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers) make heart patients more vulnerable to COVID-19, the evidence is inconclusive. Therefore, it’s better to not pose an immediate threat to yourself and continue taking medications as prescribed. 

These same findings apply to medications that address hypertension. 

“Our findings should reassure the medical community and patients about the continued use of these commonly prescribed medications, which prevent potentially severe heart events in their own right,” said Dr. Harmony Reynolds, the lead investigator on the study. 

Keep a defibrillator handy 

Nobody should fear the emergency room. Especially if they have a history of heart disease and heart surgery. Taking your loved one to the hospital or calling the paramedics is still one of the most certain ways to ensure they receive necessary assistance. 

Keeping an AED at home can also help you be prepared for immediate concerns. In the event you live far from the hospital or it takes paramedics too long to arrive, a defibrillator can be a life-saving tool during times of self-isolation (and always). 

If you purchase one for your loved one, make sure you know how to properly operate it. It shouldn’t be used as a substitute for medical intervention. However, if used correctly, it can buy time until help arrives. 

Remain at home 

The best thing heart patients can do is enlist the help of those around them for errands. Even without the help of friends and family members, there are ways to remotely take care of business. 

Most pharmacies offer home delivery of prescription medications at little-to-no cost. Taking advantage of this service is critical for heart patients who rely on certain drugs. Grocery delivery and pickup options are also available at most grocery stores to ensure minimal contact. 

Outside of these essential needs, those with heart disease and high blood pressure would benefit greatly from following stay-at-home mandates to a tee. Continue to take exceptional precautions even after orders are lifted.