Influenza and heart disease

People with heart disease are at risk of flu complications and acute infection. Among the rank heart disease congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease and congenital heart disease (an abnormality of the heart present at birth).

People with heart disease are more likely to require hospitalization and often their impairment empire. For example, if you are a person with congestive heart failure, you may find that your symptoms get worse when you have the flu - it is possible that your breathing is more difficult or swollen ankles or you have to lassitude. Unfortunately, people with heart disease are more likely to die from flu or its complications that people with any other chronic medical conditions.

People with heart disease are not the only high risk of influenza complications and acute infection. People with diabetes, asthma, or have weakened immune systems, and many others with chronic medical conditions are also at risk. Are you at risk of flu complications?

You can take a few provisions to protect yourself from the flu:

• wash your hands the right way (at least 20 seconds with soap and water) and frequently;
• avoid places where there are lots of people, and stay home if you think you have the flu;
• cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow (not your hand!)
• eat healthy foods and practice regular physical exercise to strengthen your immune system;
• Get vaccinated. Your doctor may recommend yearly influenza vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine;
• control your heart disease. Take your medicine and follow the treatment plan recommended by your health care provider.

If you get the flu anyway, it is essential to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you notice the first signs of flu symptoms. Do not wait until your symptoms worse. People with heart disease should make an appointment with their doctor immediately so that we can begin treatment. Early treatment with antiviral medication can help to reduce the risk of influenza complications. Talk to your doctor taking advantage of the Guide for the discussion with the doctor.