Mercy Cardiologist Dr. Frank Morris Discusses COVID-19 and Its Impact on Coronary Health

Much remains unknown about the heart and coronavirus, but many studies already have indicated that people with cardiovascular disease are at greater risk of coronavirus complications.

According to Frank H. Morris, M.D., FACC, board certified cardiologist with The Heart Center at Mercy, Lutherville office, the virus can cause heart disease and that there have been cases of inflammation of the heart muscle which can lead to congestive heart failure.

Doctors still don't know enough about the disease to say whether it's a temporary condition that will get better over time with medical management or whether there will be some permanent injury.

“Occasionally, patients will come in with chest discomfort, and the virus has been associated with inflammation of the heart muscle, as well as closure of coronary arteries. And sometimes it can mimic even a heart attack. So, all the patients who are coming with symptoms of the coronavirus, we're recommending that they, again, get an EKG as part of their initial evaluation,” Dr. Morris said.

Dr. Morris advises social distancing, hand-washing and staying home to keep yourself healthy.

To view Mercy cardiologist Dr. Frank Morris’ interview regarding COVID-19 and heart health, click here.