A Review of Long COVID With a Special Focus on Its Cardiovascular Manifestations

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has resulted in significant global mortality and morbidity.
• Beyond acute illness, patients experience persistent symptoms, termed long COVID, affecting multiple organ systems.
• Cardiovascular manifestations are a major concern in long COVID, impacting patient recovery and long-term health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the chronic manifestations of COVID-19, with a specific emphasis on cardiovascular effects.
• To elucidate the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic approaches for cardiovascular long COVID.
• To propose a multidisciplinary treatment strategy and explore the role of vaccination.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on chronic COVID-19 and cardiovascular sequelae.
• Analysis of existing data on pathophysiology and clinical manifestations.
• Synthesis of diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities for cardiovascular long COVID.

Main Results:

• Long COVID encompasses a wide spectrum of chronic symptoms, including significant cardiovascular complications like cardiomyopathy.
• Understanding the pathophysiology is crucial for diagnosing and managing these long-term effects.
• A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for comprehensive patient care.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular manifestations are a critical component of long COVID, requiring dedicated clinical attention.
• Further research into pathophysiology and effective treatments is essential.
• The relationship between vaccination and the long COVID syndrome warrants continued investigation.