Campaigners have welcomed the first National Awareness Day for a potentially deadly condition that has been linked to both Covid-19.
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. Most people are oblivious to the fact that symptoms such as swelling and palpitations could be a sign of the potentially fatal condition, even in younger individuals.
Recent research reveals that the majority wouldn’t seek medical help if they experienced symptoms like swelling in their hands, legs, ankles or feet, palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeat), unusual fatigue, dizziness or shortness of breath. These are all signs of an inflammation of the heart muscle.
A staggering 82 percent wouldn’t seek help for flu-like symptoms including headache, body aches, joint pain or fever, and only just over a quarter of people know what Myocarditis is. The first-ever Myocarditis Awareness Day has been launched with the aim of boosting public awareness and understanding of Myocarditis, and encouraging people to seek help when necessary.
Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications or fatalities from the condition. Experts assert that heightened awareness could substantially empower individuals to monitor personal health and prompt vital discussions with GPs about any arising concerns, reports the Irish Mirror.
Andy Jansons, Chair of Myocarditis UK, said: “It’s so important to be aware of the symptoms and know that it’s ok to seek medical help if you’re experiencing them.”
Mr Janson highlighted the advances in public education about Myocarditis since the loss of his son Alexander at just 18. He said: “We have come a long way since we began in 2013 where there was hardly any information available on Myocarditis, but the introduction of a National Awareness Day is an incredible step forward in raising recognition.”
“Alexander would have appreciated that the awareness day date is also the same date his birthday would have been.”
The British Heart Foundation says there is “a link between mRNA Covid-19 vaccines and an increased risk of myocarditis and pericarditis”.
On its website, the charity says: “While reports of myocarditis following any Covid-19 vaccine are rare, cases are more common in young males under the age of 25, according to the UK’s Green Book on vaccines. The risk appears to be higher after a second dose of the vaccine, compared with the first dose or booster doses.
“Research shows that Covid-19 itself is much more likely to cause myocarditis than the vaccine. People who are vaccinated against Covid-19 also have a much lower risk of getting other serious heart complications caused by the virus, including heart attack and stroke.
“That is why the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) says the benefits of having the Covid-19 vaccine far outweigh the risks of not getting it for most people.”