Heart failure and COVID-19: synergism of two inflammatory conditions?

Abstract

Heart failure as a comorbidity in the older population with COVID-19 poses an additional threat to those affected. Patients with both COVID-19 and heart failure share similar risk factors, which result in magnification of pathological outcomes. These include a common inflammatory pathology and related coagulopathy. Both illnesses pose a risk of arrhythmia. Polypharmacy further complicates safe drug administration and worsens the risk of medication-induced arrhythmia. Additionally, both conditions present challenges regarding attaining and maintaining an appropriate nutritional state. Exploration of the interplay between these factors demonstrates the gravity of the co-existence of these conditions and helps understand the difficulties faced when caring for this patient group. Although care provided to COVID-19 patients is primarily related to symptom presentation, based on the analysis conducted, there are some recommendations for practice in relation to evidence and guidelines when managing heart failure patients in primary care within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.