I see my cardiologist on a regular basis for a “leaking heart valve,” do I need to take special precautions due to COVID-19?

Dr. Jonathan Aliota
Interventional Cardiologist
Medical Advisor August 2020

---

I see my cardiologist on a regular basis for a “leaking heart valve,” do I need to take special precautions due to COVID-19?

This is a very common question that we are getting daily in the office right now. The COVID-19 outbreak has become very serious, especially in Houston. Right now, you do not need to take additional precautions, but you do need to take the existing precautions seriously. Many people worry that because they have a “leaking heart valve” or any other issue with their heart, that they may be at higher risk for developing complications from an COVID-19 infection. An issue with your heart valve does not mean you can catch COVID-19 more easily, but it does mean that a serious infection may be a little more difficult for your body to deal with, depending on how serious your heart valve issue is. As with any illness, you want your heart to be as healthy as possible and prevention is key. Taking care of your heart is as simple as walking every day, and that falls nicely into the current recommendation that we get outside to exercise. The best practices to keep from contracting COVID-19 are wash your hands routinely, continue social distancing, always wear a mask in public spaces and continue to exercise daily to prevent disease and protect your heart muscle.  If you have questions regarding your specific condition, don’t hesitate to call your doctor or reach out via email to The Villages Gym to connect us.

---