Having a heart condition does not increase your chances of getting COVID-19 vaccine side effects. The risk of complications is minimal for people with underlying heart problems. Being diagnosed with COVID-19 carries a greater risk for individuals with heart disease than the vaccine.
People with heart disease are at an increased risk of developing severe complications of COVID-19, which is why it’s extremely important for them to get vaccinated.
“If you have a heart-related condition – high blood pressure, diabetes or stroke – it may be harder for you to fight off COVID-19, making it more serious and sometimes fatal,” says Dr. Neal Sawlani, cardiologist at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. “The vaccine is safe and effective and getting vaccinated carries more benefits than risk, especially for people with a history of heart disease.”
Symptoms of COVID-19 for people with heart conditions can include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue or heart palpitations.
Seek information and guidance about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine from experts such as your primary care physician or cardiologist. Before planning your vaccine appointment, discuss your medications and possible side effects.
“At any sign of the COVID-19 symptoms, we urge you to call your doctor and seek urgent care, says Dr. Sawlani. “For patients with heart issues, every minute counts. Don’t avoid coming to the hospital with heart problems out of fear of getting COVID-19.”
Advocate’s Safe Care Promise guarantees additional measures – such as screening and masking for every visitor – beyond our standard precautions to minimize the risk of exposure.
