The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented global disruption, with hundreds of thousands of fatalities and a severe economic downturn. Recently, new variants and sub-variants of the virus, such as Delta, Omicron and XE, have been identified in different parts of the world, raising further concern.
It is thought that SARS-CoV-2, the original form of the coronavirus, began in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019. Its global reach has had a devastating effect. Lately, new versions, including the Delta and Omicron variants, have been recognised in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, and India.
This article will look at the spread, symptoms, sub-variants, and impact of the Omicron strain on cardiac health.
Omicron and its Symptoms
Omicron is a subvariant of coronaviurus. It was discovered in late 2021, and since then, it has swept the globe, eventually annihilating other variants such as delta and XE. Its symptoms vary depending on the strain but generally include fever, headache, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and joint pain. Some strains of Omicron can cause a rash on the skin.
Here is the list of omicron symptoms:
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Fever and fatigue:
An unusually high body temperature, usually greater than 100.4°F, and a feeling of tiredness and exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest.
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Headache and loss of appetite:
A throbbing or aching sensation in the head and decreased desire to eat or an inability to eat.
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Muscle aches and pains:
Aching or soreness in muscles, often in the arms, legs, or back.
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Nausea and vomiting:
A feeling of sickness in the stomach, often accompanied by a sensation of wanting to vomit.
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Diarrhoea and sore throat:
Loose, watery, frequent bowel movements and itchy, scratchy, or sore sensation in the throat.
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Chest pain and difficulty breathing:
A sharp or burning sensation in the chest and laboured breathing, shortness of breath, or difficulty getting enough air.
Omicron and its Latest Variant XE
XE is a hybrid of Omicron BA1 and BA2. A recombinant is formed when a person is infected with more than one variant of the virus. The recombinant contains both variants’ genetic material.
Omicron is the most common cause of COVID infection worldwide. So far, BA.2 is the most common variant of Omicron found in India.
According to Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Advisor at the UK Health Security Agency, “as with any other coronavirus (COVID-19) variant, the vast majority do not confer any advantage to the virus and die out relatively quickly.”
Symptoms of covid XE variant include cough, fever, headache, fatigue, runny nose, and scratchy throat are common COVID symptoms. Other symptoms include loss of smell and taste and body pain. A patient may experience shortness of breath and chest pain in severe cases.
Omicron and Stroke
Omicorn can increase the risk of symptoms of stroke in men and women by causing inflammation of the blood vessels and increasing the risk of blood clots, which can lead to stroke. Other factors associated with COVID-19, such as respiratory problems, high blood pressure, and diabetes, can also increase the risk of stroke. Additionally, stress and anxiety caused by the pandemic can lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as an unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity, which can also increase the risk of stroke.
Symptoms of a stroke due to Omicron can include:
- Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Severe headache with no known cause
- Difficulty breathing
The first studies came from Wuhan, China. One study published in March 2020 found that 27.8 per cent of COVID-19 hospitalised patients had heart damage. Some had pre-existing heart conditions, while others did not. Here are some impacts of Omicron and coronavirus on cardiac health:
Causes heart damage
When you go to the hospital with heart problems or a suspected COVID-19 infection, your cardiac enzymes are frequently tested. High levels of these enzymes in blood tests indicate that the heart is in trouble. The presence of these enzymes indicates the presence of a heart attack. They also show when a patient has complications from direct heart injury caused by the infection.
Can lead to heart failure and arrhythmias
It can also cause dangerous heart inflammation, known as myocarditis, which prevents the heart from working correctly. This infection can cause arrhythmias and heart failure. As a result, it’s a significant risk factor to understand and monitor.
Increase blood clotting
It is becoming clear that the corona kavach can cause a significant increase in blood clots throughout the body. When your blood clots, it forms gel-like clumps. According to some European studies, up to 20% to 30% of the most unwell COVID-19 patients are affected. Too many blood clots can cause serious complications. There is some speculation that the coronavirus also affects the clotting system.
People diagnosed with COVID-19 and its variants should take steps to reduce their risk of stroke. It includes making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and monitoring and controlling any underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. It is also essential to get regular checkups with a healthcare provider, follow their medication and treatment recommendations, and get necessary vaccinations.