Local Expert Talks COVID-19 And Your Heart

We have been hearing for weeks how underlying conditions put you at risk for more serious complications from COVID-19.

We recently spoke with our friend Dr. Kenneth Sable, Regional President of Southern Market at Hackensack Meridian Health, to discuss how the heart may be affected by COVID-19.

Dr. Sable started the conversation with a well deserved tribute to all those on the medical front lines of this battle and their families for the great work they are bravely doing each day, and the sacrifices they are making.

Here are some details of the interview we wanted to share with you.

Those with a history of heart disease or hypertension are not necessarily at a higher risk of catching COVID-19, but they do have a higher risk of having more severe symptoms.

COVID-19 affects the heart because the disease affects the lungs and makes it harder for your heart to get oxygen which affects the whole body and in turn taxes the heart.It can also destabilize plaque in arteries leading to increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

The best way for those with heart issues to void contracting COVID-19 is to follow the same guidelines the CDC has issued for everyone, like social distancing,staying home and hand washing. also healthy diet and continuing current medications or treatments unless your physician says not to.

You can learn more at the Hackensack Meridian Health website, and you can hear the full interview today (4/6/20) at 8:10am on 94.3 The Point.