Millions of people around the world have been stricken by COVID-19, a viral infection caused by the novel Coronavirus. This starts with droplets from an infected person’s cough, sneeze, or breath. Due to its presence in the air or anywhere on a surface, it is highly contagious. As soon as one is caught by this virus he may feel symptoms like Fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, loss of taste and smell, sore throat, congestion, and runny nose. Even after a complete recovery from covid-19, the lurking dangers need to be dealt with with extreme care and a healthy diet.
The long term effects of COVID-19 on your body are still unclear. Some patients have become what is being called “long-haulers” as the patients suffer from various health issues for a long time. In addition to severe lung damage and a weak immune system, it weakens the other body organs and affects their performance badly. A little ignorance regarding your heart health can be life-threatening. People who have recovered from COVID-19 need to prioritize heart health when they are on their way to recovery. Several simple steps can be taken to improve the heart health after COVID-19, let’s dive into the detail of some of those.
Gradual Return to Physical Activity
It’s natural to want to resume your regular exercise routine as soon as possible after recovering from COVID-19. It’s important, however, to exercise caution. Your workouts should be done gradually, increasing in intensity and duration as you progress. It is highly recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program. You should consider doing gentle exercises like walking, stretching, and yoga to regain strength and restore previous energy.
Take a Balanced and Heart-Healthy Diet
To overall maintain good health we should have a good diet plan, especially for your heart. Focus on rich nutrient foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and other healthy fats, in your meals. Minimize processed unhealthy foods, sugary snacks, and excessive salt, as they can contribute to high blood pressure and inflammation, which is not good for your heart health.
Increase Your Water Intake
Staying well-hydrated is good for your heart health and overall recovery. One should drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keep yourself proper hydration helps maintain blood volume, allowing your heart to pump blood more efficiently
Prioritize Stress Management
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a source of significant stress for almost all people around the world even after the invention of its successful vaccine. Chronic stress can have adverse effects on the heart. Which is not good for the heart health. Engaging oneself in stress-relief techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, spending time in nature, pursuing hobbies, or talking to friends and family pave the way to a healthy and stress-free lifestyle. This healthy lifestyle helps you to cope with stress which is essential for your heart’s well-being.
Get Quality Sleep
Adequate, quality sleep is crucial for heart health. It is very important to sleep for at least 8 hours per day. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid excessive 1 hour before bed, and ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to rest.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
Regular monitoring of your blood pressure and heart rate during the recovery phase is crucial. This can help detect any potential heart-related issues early on. If you notice any unusual readings or symptoms, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Quit or Reduce Smoking
Smokers are more likely to catch heart disease. But after Covid-19 smokers should quit or at least reduce smoking if not quitting. Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease and can hinder the recovery process after COVID-19. Seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or quit-smoking programs to increase your chances of success.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Excessive alcohol consumption can be detrimental to heart health. If you drink, do so in moderation. For most adults, this means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
Gradual Return to Work and Daily Activities
Returning to work or daily activities should also be a gradual process. Listen to your body and give yourself ample time to recover fully. If possible, consider a phased return to work or reduced working hours to avoid unnecessary stress on your body and heart.
Conclusion
Recovering from COVID-19 is a journey that requires patience, self-care, and a focus on heart health. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and sufficient sleep, you can significantly improve your heart health after COVID-19. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider regularly to ensure you are on the right track and to address any concerns promptly. Small steps can lead to significant improvements in your heart health and overall well-being. Take it one day at a time, and you’ll soon find yourself on the path to a stronger and healthier heart.
