Hyderabad neurologist lists ‘3 golden rules’ to protect your heart, shares how even a simple flu can raise cardiac risk

Even a simple flu can impact your heart, says Dr Sudhir Kumar. He explains the hidden risks and shares three key rules to stay safe during illness and recovery.

Ignoring short-term health triggers could quietly put your heart at risk, even if your routine tests look perfectly normal. Highlighting this often-overlooked aspect of heart health, Dr Sudhir Kumar, Neurologist at Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills in Hyderabad, explained how temporary conditions like infections can sometimes lead to serious cardiac events.

In his March 26 post on X (formerly Twitter), Dr Sudhir shares, “Your ‘clean’ blood work won’t save you from a heart attack if you ignore short-term triggers.”

He stressed that even common, short-term illnesses can pose serious risks, adding, “a recent flu or a gum infection can precipitate an acute coronary event in days, even if your cholesterol is ‘normal.’” According to him, these triggers can quietly increase risk even in people who otherwise appear healthy.

Why does this happen?

Dr Kumar explained that infections can set off multiple reactions in the body that directly impact heart health:

• Systemic inflammation: Your body goes into overdrive, increasing overall stress on the cardiovascular system.
• Pro-thrombotic state: Your blood becomes ‘stickier’ and more likely to clot, raising the chances of blockages.
• Plaque instability: That ‘safe’ plaque in your arteries can rupture under stress, which can lead to sudden cardiac events.

The 3 golden rules to protect your heart

Sharing practical advice, he outlined key habits to follow during illness and recovery:

• Don’t ‘grind through’ the flu: Vigorous exercise while sick is a massive heart stressor and can worsen the underlying strain on the heart.
• Brush your teeth: Oral bacteria are a direct gateway to heart inflammation, making daily hygiene more important than it may seem.
• Recovery is more important than ego: Resume training gradually after illness, allowing the body enough time to heal properly.

Emphasising a broader perspective on wellness, he concluded, “Heart health is not just about the gym or running; it is about knowing when to stay home,” underscoring the importance of rest, awareness and timely recovery.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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