The Covid-19 pandemic poses a significant effect on physical and psychological stress. The whole world is witnessing a high rate of morbidity and mortality. It is common to have mental issues, including fear, anxiety, and depression during such a scenario. However, it is necessary to manage these conditions, especially in people with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension. Psychological issues may take a toll on health in already-at-risk hypertensive patients.
IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC ON CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
The pandemic has affected the life at every quarter including the physical and mental health of an individual. Several studies have revealed an increase in psychological stress in the people who have recovered from Covid-19. People who are living in an environment filled with fear and uncertainty also experience stress.
Hypertensive patients with advanced age and other conditions such as previous heart problems, diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease have a poor outcome from Covid-19 infection. Such patients must take care of their physical and mental health.
Psychological stress due to the pandemic may occur at any age. However, the symptoms of poor psychological health vary with age. Stress in adults includes lack of interest, lethargy, increased irritation and shouting, emotional outbursts, alteration in the sleep cycles, and depression.
Various reasons contribute to poor mental health due to the pandemic in patients with hypertension. Some of them are:
Fear: There is an unparalleled fear in the environment. The fear of losing oneself and the loved ones’ lives
Reduced Physical Activity: Studies revealed a significant reduction in sleep quality, mental health, and physical activity in people with hypertension due to the pandemic. Low physical activity results in poor control of blood pressure
There is evidence of poor mental health in the people categorised into high-risk groups. Patients with chronic conditions such as hypertension and heart problems experience a high level of anxiety, stress and depression. Mental health further takes a toll when such people contract Covid-19.
Lack of Social Interaction: Hypertension occurs more commonly in adults and the elderly. However, the increased risk of serious illness due to Covid-19 have confined them within the home boundaries. It has affected blood pressure control and cardiac health
Negativity in the Environment: Social media, newspapers and news channels are continuously delivering information about Covid-19. Further, people are also receiving information about the severe illness or death of their relatives. It creates a negative environment around patients with cardiovascular disease, thereby impacting their cardiac health.
Admissions in the Hospitals: The healthcare system is working at full stretch, and people are searching for beds, oxygen, and ventilators. Patients admitted to the hospital witnesses death and panic resulting in mental stress.
Increase in Domestic Issues: The incidences of domestic violence and family fights have increased during a pandemic. It may be due to spending more time among family members in close contact. Irritation due to job losses and financial constraints further compounds stress, anxiety, and depression.
Functional Limitations: Functional limitations in hypertensive patients due to lockdown had increased mental stress. Cardiac patients may have severe illness due to Covid-19, which results in extended recovery time. Confined to bed also causes psychological stress.
COPING STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS
There are various ways to manage stress in hypertensive patients during Covid-19. Some of them are:
Physical Activity: Indulging yourself in physical activity may reduce stress and anxiety. Make exercise part of your daily routine. Various online exercise classes will help to maintain physical activity.
People with chronic diseases require a regular follow-up that reduces the probability of deterioration. All people should strictly follow the universal Covid-19 protocols. Minimising media exposure, practising relaxation technique, and monitoring blood pressure helps in reducing stress.
Minimise Exposure to Media Coverage: Limit your media exposure. Overburdening yourself with Covid-19 information throughout the day may result in poor mental health outcomes. Do not believe in fake information and educate yourself from the trusted sources.
Maintain Good Sleep: Pandemic had caused a disturbance in the sleep cycle. You may experience difficulty sleeping or problem waking up. Keeping a healthy sleep routine improves immunity and helps in managing blood pressure control and maintaining a good cardiac condition
Practice Relaxation Techniques: There are various relaxation methods available that may help you in managing psychological issues. You may practice yoga or meditation.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure: You must have your blood pressure under control. Take medicines strictly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip scheduled appointment and seek video consultation if possible. Monitor your blood pressure.
Seek Support: Do not hesitate to share your feelings with your family and friends. It is a powerful stress buster. If you have a persistent fear of getting infected, share your feelings.
Follow Passion: Indulge yourself in the activities you love. It may be gardening, cooking, painting, music or dancing. It will divert your mind from all the negativities and improve your cardiac health.
Instil Positive Attitude: Fear and a negative attitude may worsen your cardiac health. Many patients suffering from Covid-19 had deteriorated their condition due to sadness, depression, and hopelessness.
Taking care of physical and mental health during the pandemic is critical, especially in people suffering from cardiovascular disease. It will help in coping with psychological issues and taking care of cardiac health
The writer is a Consultant – Cardiology & Electrophysiology, Manipal Hospitals Whitefield, Bengaluru.