Cardiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Tuna Katırcıbaşı stated that the flu virus can cause pneumonia when it affects the lungs, and a heart disease called myocarditis when it settles in the heart, and said: “This condition, which is likely to be seen after common viral infections such as colds or flu, especially in winter months, is popularly known as “heart flu.” . “Heart flu is a rare problem that can lead to serious consequences,” he said.
FLU VIRUS AFFECTS THE HEART MUSCLE
Prof. Dr. Katırcıbaşı defines heart flu as an inflammation of the heart muscle, which is called “viral myocarditis” in the medical literature and usually occurs as a result of viral infections, and said: “Viruses can sometimes trigger myocarditis by directly infecting the heart muscle or causing an overreaction of the immune system. “The most common factors include Coxsackie viruses, adenoviruses and influenza viruses,” he said.
IT IS MORE COMMON IN MEN
The lungs and heart are the main organs where flu spreads, which is very common in winter months. The heart flu that develops as a result is mostly seen in men between the ages of 20-50. Prof. Dr. Katırcıbaşı explained the reason for this situation as cardiovascular diseases develop more frequently in men than in women and the male heart is more sensitive to these diseases.
SYMPTOMS ARE SIMILAR TO COLDS
“Heart flu can start with symptoms of a mild cold. These symptoms are later replaced by shortness of breath, palpitations, and especially stinging chest pain. In some cases, flu-like symptoms are left behind while underlying heart muscle damage continues. “In severe cases, it can lead to serious consequences such as heart failure or irregular heart rhythms,” said Prof. Dr. Katırcıbaşı stated that these symptoms should be paid attention to.
IF NOT TREATED, IT CAUSES PERMANENT PROBLEMS
“If heart flu is not treated, it can lead to permanent damage to the heart muscle, heart rhythm disorders and serious problems such as heart failure,” said Prof. Dr. For this reason, Katırcıbaşı recommended that, especially in cases of severe symptoms that occur after viral infections, one should consult a health institution without wasting time for control purposes.
AWARENESS SAVES LIVES
Prof. stated that it should not be forgotten that common infections such as flu can affect not only the respiratory tract but also heart health. Dr. Katırcıbaşı said, “Heart flu is a serious health problem that can be life-threatening. “For this reason, general measures taken against viral infections should be applied more meticulously, especially during the winter months,” he said.
Prof. Dr. Katırcıbaşı listed some measures as follows:
“Getting a flu shot
Keeping the immune system strong
Complying with hygiene rules to protect from infections
Avoiding being in crowded environments
Ventilate the environment frequently
Paying attention to personal hand hygiene
using a mask
“Not skipping regular health checks.”
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