High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is not considered heart disease for the purpose of COVID-19 vaccine eligibility. However, individuals with high blood pressure may be at an increased risk for severe illness if they contract COVID-19. As a result, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals with high blood pressure get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as they are eligible.
Individuals with heart disease, including those with a history of heart attack, heart failure, or other heart conditions, are at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. As a result, the CDC recommends that individuals with heart disease get vaccinated as soon as possible.
There have been several studies that have examined the relationship between COVID-19 and high blood pressure. Here are a few examples:
- A study published in the European Heart Journal in 2020 found that individuals with hypertension were more likely to experience severe illness and complications from COVID-19. The study included over 2,800 patients with COVID-19 and found that individuals with hypertension were more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit, require mechanical ventilation, and experience complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and acute kidney injury.
- Another study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension in 2021 found that individuals with uncontrolled hypertension had a higher risk of mortality from COVID-19. The study included over 2,800 patients with COVID-19 and found that those with uncontrolled hypertension had a 3.5 times higher risk of mortality compared to those without hypertension.
- A review published in the American Journal of Hypertension in 2021 found that hypertension was associated with an increased risk of severe illness and mortality from COVID-19. The review included 34 studies and found that hypertension was associated with a higher risk of hospitalization, admission to the ICU, and mortality from COVID-19.
While these studies suggest that individuals with hypertension may be at an increased risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19, it’s important to note that having high blood pressure does not necessarily mean that a person will experience severe illness. The best way to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19 is to follow public health guidelines, get vaccinated, and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of COVID-19.
Analysis found on COVID -19 on blood pressure
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, but it can also affect other organs and systems in the body, including the cardiovascular system. There is evidence to suggest that COVID-19 may have an impact on blood pressure, both in terms of causing acute changes in blood pressure during the course of the illness and potentially contributing to long-term hypertension.
Several studies have reported that individuals with hypertension or high blood pressure are at an increased risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2020 found that individuals with hypertension had a higher risk of severe illness and mortality from COVID-19. Additionally, a study published in the European Heart Journal in 2020 found that individuals with hypertension were more likely to experience severe illness and complications from COVID-19.
There is also some evidence to suggest that COVID-19 may cause acute changes in blood pressure during the course of the illness. For example, a study published in JAMA Network Open in 2021 found that hospitalized patients with COVID-19 experienced significant fluctuations in blood pressure, which may be related to the severity of illness.
Finally, there is some concern that COVID-19 may contribute to the development of long-term hypertension. While more research is needed to fully understand this potential link, a review published in the American Journal of Hypertension in 2021 found that COVID-19 may cause endothelial dysfunction, which can contribute to the development of hypertension.
Overall, while the relationship between COVID-19 and blood pressure is complex and multifactorial, there is evidence to suggest that individuals with hypertension may be at an increased risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19. If you have concerns about COVID-19 and blood pressure, it’s important to talk to your doctor or healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance
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No, impact may vary from person to person.