The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has brought to light a number of challenges for global public health.In addition to the known respiratory effects, the disease has been shown to be a systemic condition, with the potential to impact various organs and systems, including the central nervous system (CNS) and the cardiovascular system.
Recent studies have shown that COVID-19 can cause damage to the myocardium, the heart muscle, especially in patients with more severe symptoms. This myocardial injury may increase the risk of mortality and is associated with cardiac dysfunctions and arrhythmias (TANRIVERDI and ASKIN 2020). Patients with a history of previous cardiovascular diseases are even more susceptible to this complication.
In addition, COVID-19 can also affect the CNS, causing neurological symptoms such as headaches, loss of smell and taste, fatigue and mental confusion.In more severe cases, the infection can lead to encephalitis and stroke (PATROCLO 2020). Although the exact mechanisms by which the virus affects the CNS are not yet fully understood, evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 can penetrate nerve cells and cause inflammation in the brain.
Another important aspect to be considered is the relationship between the mental stress caused by the pandemic and the cardiovascular system. Fear, anxiety and social isolation can trigger physiological responses that increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial ischemia and arrhythmias (LOURES et all).
In short, COVID-19 is a complex disease with the potential to cause damage to both the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system. The recognition of these risks is fundamental for the development of prevention, diagnosis and treatment strategies, aiming to minimize the complications and sequelae of the disease.
References
LOURES, et al. Mental Stress and Cardiovascular System, Arquivos Brasileiros de Cardiologia, v. 78, no. 5, Sao Paulo, May 2002.
SPONSOR, Cristiane. Covid-19: what are the main neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms? PEBMED, 2020. Available in: https://pebmed.com.br/covid-19-quais-os-principais-sintomas-neurologicos-e-neuropsiquiatricos/. Accessed on: 15 Jul. 2024.
TANRIVERDI, THE.; ASKIN, K. The Effect of Coronavirus Disease 2019 on Cardiovascular Diseases. Ad\u0131yaman Universitesi E\u011fitim ve Ara\u015ft\u0131rma Hastanesi, Centry – Turkey, 2020.
