New research indicates that Covid-19 might leave unrecognized issues for women, lingering in their bodies for years.
The findings suggest that the virus may effectively age women’s blood vessels by about five years, heightening their risk of heart attacks and strokes in the future.
This study, published in the European Heart Journal, tracked nearly 2,400 adults across 16 countries.
Researchers observed changes in arterial stiffness at six and twelve months post-infection, and the results were intriguing.
Women who contracted Covid exhibited significant arterial stiffness, regardless of whether their initial illness was mild. The severity of the infection directly correlated with the level of damage observed.
There was a notable increase in women requiring intensive care, but interestingly, even those recovering at home displayed similar effects.
Atherosclerosis, which is closely related to cardiovascular disease, is particularly concerning.
Experts speculate that the equivalent of five years of vascular “aging” could raise the risk of heart complications by about 3% for women around the age of 60. In contrast, similar findings in men didn’t show statistically significant effects.
Professor Rosa Maria Bruno of the University of Paris remarked that this research is a concerning signal for women’s health post-Covid.
“We know Covid can directly affect blood vessels. Our findings emphasize the possibility of long-lasting impacts, especially for women, and underscore the need for early identification of those at risk to avert heart attacks and strokes,” she stated.
The study also provided insights into long Covid. Women still facing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or brain fog showed more signs of vascular aging.
On a positive note, vaccinated individuals exhibited less arteriosclerosis compared to those who hadn’t been vaccinated, indicating that the vaccine offers benefits beyond just preventing severe disease.
Researchers believe the virus impacts the endothelium, the delicate lining of blood vessels, through the ACE2 receptor, potentially leading to long-term inflammation and immune response alterations.
Cardiologists emphasize the necessity for continued care following Covid.
Experts recommend that women who had Covid, particularly those with lingering symptoms, should stay vigilant about their heart health.
Regular health screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels could mitigate risks.
This study represents one of the largest international investigations into the long-term vascular ramifications of Covid, contributing to the growing evidence that the virus transcends being merely a respiratory illness, impacting vascular health with enduring consequences.
